São Paulo Wi‑Fi contract probed for diversion to ‘Dark Horse’ film

Police Civil of São Paulo launched "Operação Wi‑fi", executing search warrants at Instituto Conhecer Brasil (ICB), its president Karina Ferreira da Gama's residence, the municipal Secretaria of Innovation, and the production company Go Up Entertainment, which is making the film “Dark Horse” about former President Jair Bolsonaro.

The investigation concerns a R$108 million contract signed with the city to provide free Wi‑Fi in peripheral neighborhoods. The contract originally called for 5,000 access points; only about 3,200 were installed and the scope was later reduced to 2,297. Authorities allege the contract was overpriced, with maintenance fees of R$1,800 per point—far above comparable rates—and that payments were made for services not delivered.

Subcontractor Ultra IP alleges the ICB failed to pay roughly R$5.5 million, accusing the NGO of withholding invoices. Prosecutors suspect part of the municipal funds may have been diverted to finance the “Dark Horse” film, linking the NGO and Go Up Entertainment financially. ICB says it has engaged independent auditors and is cooperating with investigators.