Brazilian lawyer Nelson Wilians investigated for R$3.8 billion tax fraud

The São Paulo Public Ministry (MP‑SP) and the State Treasury (Sefaz‑SP) have launched Operation Distrato to probe an alleged scheme that sold falsified ICMS tax credits worth about R$3.8 billion. Prosecutors say the scheme involved creating hundreds of dummy companies, issuing fake invoices and documents, and promising nonexistent tax reductions to dozens of firms, causing a massive loss to public finances.

Prominent lawyer and digital influencer Nelson Wilians, founder of the large NWADV law firm, is identified as a central figure in the investigation. Search and seizure warrants were executed at his office in São Paulo, at a branch in Cuiabá (Mato Grosso), and at the premises of associate Mayra de Paula in Londrina (Paraná). The investigation has already resulted in tax infractions for 752 companies linked to the alleged fraud.

Wilians, who commands a sizable legal practice with over 1,100 attorneys and a strong media presence, has previously faced other probes, including a 2025 Federal Police inquiry into alleged INSS benefit fraud. The current case highlights concerns over illicit tax‑credit operations and the enforcement actions of Brazilian authorities.