Brazil Federal Police Launch Third Phase of FGTS Fraud Probe Targeting Athletes and Caixa Staff

Agents executed four search-and-seizure warrants in Rio, including three at homes of Caixa employees in Tijuca, Ramos and Deodoro and one at a downtown branch. Authorities estimate about R$ 7 million was diverted through fraudulent withdrawals from worker guarantee accounts using forged documents. The inquiry began after a private bank reported a fake account opened in Paolo Guerrero’s name, a case that logged R$ 2.2 million in losses. Identified victims include Paolo Guerrero, Gabriel Jesus, Ramires, João Rojas and Christian Cueva. Police report that a lawyer led the scheme with insider assistance at Caixa, her bar registration is suspended, and suspects may face charges of document forgery, fraud and criminal association.