Mato Grosso missionaries investigated for aiding Comando Vermelho

Mato Grosso authorities are investigating a family of missionaries suspected of using their authorized religious assistance program in prisons to support the Comando Vermelho criminal faction.

Rhavenna Barcelos de Almeida and her parents, pastors Nivaldo and Orminda de Almeida, are accused of using their access to the Penitenciária Central do Estado in Cuiabá to transmit messages, move money, and hide resources for the organization. The investigation, known as Operação Fariseus, alleges the family used bank accounts to facilitate the movement of funds derived from drug trafficking.

Police reports indicate that Rhavenna maintained a romantic relationship with Jonas Souza Gonçalves Júnior, known as ‘Batman’, a high-ranking leader of the Comando Vermelho who fled to Rio de Janeiro after breaking his electronic monitoring. Evidence seized includes messages, videos, and photos showing Rhavenna with luxury items, such as a Porsche, and in proximity to armed individuals. The suspects face charges of criminal organization and money laundering.