BRASILIA — Brazil’s Federal Police moved against communications executive Thiago Miranda on Thursday as part of the ongoing investigation into the collapsed Banco Master bank, according to a court ruling made public that day.
Miranda had been brought on by banker Daniel Vorcaro to lead a public relations campaign defending the now-shuttered financial institution. The operation marks the latest development in a scandal that has been steadily expanding since Banco Master was shut down by Brazil’s central bank last year following a liquidity crisis.
Vorcaro was taken into custody back in March, and his case has since revealed what authorities describe as a broad network of influence that has shaken public confidence in government officials.
A ruling from Supreme Court Justice Andre Mendonca outlined the basis for Thursday’s action, which included allegations that Miranda’s activities involved attacks targeting the central bank and the creation of a dossier on Milton Maluhy Filho, the chief executive of lender Itau Unibanco.
Justice Mendonca authorized law enforcement to seize electronic devices — including computers and mobile phones — along with documents, financial records, cash, and other materials found at multiple locations connected to Miranda.
According to the court ruling, evidence gathered by officials suggests Miranda arranged for social media influencers to publicly support Banco Master while criticizing the central bank. Investigators also believe he may have played a role in efforts to intimidate members of the press and conduct unlawful surveillance of certain individuals.
Miranda, who owns a communications firm, had previously been considered only a witness in the Banco Master investigation. He had cooperated with authorities, sharing details about Vorcaro’s earlier efforts to defend the bank publicly.
However, a review of messages exchanged between Miranda and Vorcaro led investigators to conclude that Miranda had taken an active role in collecting information about some of Vorcaro’s targets — including the Itau CEO and a well-known journalist.
Reuters was unable to reach Miranda for comment, and no legal representatives could be identified or contacted on his behalf. Itau Unibanco declined to offer any statement on the matter.
