SAO PAULO — Prosecutors in Rio de Janeiro have brought charges against 22 individuals accused of operating a complex money-laundering scheme designed to serve Brazilian criminal organizations, authorities announced Wednesday. Simultaneously, law enforcement carried out search operations across both Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo states.
The Organized Crime Special Action Group, known as GAECO, revealed that the alleged network moved millions of reais through recently formed shell companies. Investigators say the operation relied on tactics such as structured deposits and the use of recruited accountants to conceal where the illegal money was coming from.
Brazilian media outlets, including CNN Brasil and the news portal G1, reported that the group was believed to have laundered funds on behalf of three separate criminal gangs.
When reporters asked about those reports, the Public Prosecutor’s Office indicated that the investigation remains under seal as authorities continue working to identify additional suspects.
Among those charged, prosecutors noted, are Lebanese nationals.
