Porto Seguro elderly care facility staff removed amid fraud investigation

Two public servants, Huliana Paixao and Marisa de Jesus Gomes, have been immediately removed from their positions at the Vila do Bem Viver Long-Term Care Institution for the Elderly in Porto Seguro, Bahia. The judicial decision follows investigations by the Public Ministry of Bahia into irregularities regarding the management of social security and assistance benefits for residents.

Investigations revealed that 14 elderly residents lost approximately 30% of their benefits between April and July this year, resulting in an estimated loss of R$ 28,300.20. Authorities also identified the improper collection of bank cards. Additionally, the court received reports of coercion, threats, and physical aggression involving a resident's family member, alongside allegations of moral harassment and psychological violence within the facility.

The removed employees are prohibited from working at the institution or approaching residents within 100 meters. Josemar Marinho Siquara, the municipal Secretary of Social Assistance, has been appointed as the provisional administrator of the residents' benefits to ensure proper management and accountability to the court.