Corruption investigation in Coari, Brazil

The Brazilian Supreme Federal Court (STF) ordered the removal of Coari Mayor Adail Pinheiro from office as part of the Federal Police’s ‘Operação Dinastia do Lago’. The investigation targets suspected corruption, money laundering, embezzlement, and fraud in public bidding processes within the municipal administration.

The probe was initiated following the seizure of approximately R$ 1.25 million in cash at Brasília International Airport in May 2025. Authorities are investigating connections between businessmen, public agents, and the Coari administration, including the relationship between investigated companies and the mayor and his son, Federal Deputy Adail Filho. The Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) is also auditing the use of federal funds, such as ‘Emendas PIX’, in the municipality.

Following the court order, Justice Alexandre de Moraes imposed a 90-day suspension on the mayor. Jeany Pinheiro, president of the Coari Municipal Chamber, has assumed interim control of the City Hall. This leadership transition occurs while the vice-mayor, Emanuel Pinheiro, is on leave to campaign for a state deputy seat. Recent searches in Manaus and Coari resulted in the seizure of significant cash in multiple currencies, vehicles, and luxury items.