PF confisca dinheiro, armas e carro de luxo em operação que mira prefeito de Sorocaba - Estadão

Key Findings

The Brazilian Federal Police (PF) conducted a raid on the property of Sorocaba's mayor, Rodrigo Manga, seizing over R$600,000 in cash, weapons, and a luxury car. The investigation focuses on suspected embezzlement of healthcare funds and money laundering.

The Investigation

The PF is investigating alleged fraud in the contracting of a social organization to manage municipal health units. The inquiry also examines suspicious transactions, including cash deposits, bill payments, and real estate dealings, suggestive of money laundering. A court authorized the seizure of assets up to R$20 million.

Reactions

• The Mayor's Response: Mayor Manga, on TikTok, downplayed the event, jokingly mentioning unrelated items found during the search.
• The Defense's Statement: The defense characterized the search as unnecessary and abusive, denying any mayoral involvement in illegal activities.
• The Municipality's Statement: The Sorocaba municipality stated its cooperation with authorities.

Wider Context

The operation occurred in 13 cities, not just Sorocaba. The investigation also highlighted the mayor's rising political profile and recent clashes with proposed increases in taxes on essential goods and tolls. The defense alleges political motivations behind the investigation.