Barra Velha court freezes assets over suspected bidding fraud

A court has ordered the freezing of assets in Barra Velha, Santa Catarina, following allegations of bidding fraud involving municipal education services. The investigation, led by the Santa Catarina Public Ministry (MPSC), concerns a 2019 tender for sound services for municipal school events.

The MPSC alleges that two participating companies, which shared an address and had family ties, simulated competition to favor a specific provider. Additionally, investigators found that payments were made for services during the 2019 school recess that lack documentation proving they were ever performed. The total estimated damage to public funds is approximately R$ 22,932.35. The legal action involves a former mayor, two former municipal secretaries, and representatives from the companies involved.