Nelson Wilians group targeted in R$3.8 bn ICMS fraud operation
On July 15, 2026 the Inter‑institutional Committee for Asset Recovery of São Paulo (CIRA/SP) launched Operation Distrato, executing 38 search and seizure warrants in six locations – São Paulo, Campinas, Jundiaí, Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo state) and Londrina, Cambé (Paraná). The operation targets an alleged scheme that sold falsified ICMS tax‑credit certificates, which investigators estimate caused a loss of more than R$ 3.8 billion to the São Paulo treasury.
The scheme involved at least 752 companies that used the bogus credits to reduce their ICMS liability. Intermediaries – law firms and consulting offices – offered the credits at a discount and collected commissions of up to 70 % of the saved tax. The core of the network is linked to the economic group of lawyer Nelson Wilians; his office and residence were searched, and the lawyer Mayra de Paula, identified as his associate, was also targeted.
Investigators say the fraud relied on shell companies, falsified invoices, forged tax‑authority documents and contracts to give the appearance of legality. No arrests were made at the time, but authorities aim to gather further evidence, identify economic beneficiaries and pursue administrative, civil and criminal liability. Promoter Alexandre Castilho warned that “we do not rule out that other states may suffer billion‑real losses with this fraud,” suggesting a possible nationwide impact.