# Predatory lending and fraud in Rio Grande do Sul

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/predatory-lending-and-fraud-in-rio-grande-do-sul
> Updated: 2026-10-10T00:09:09.000Z. Sources: 22. Developments: 2.

Authorities in Rio Grande do Sul are investigating various fraudulent financial activities. In one instance, a farmer reported a scheme where her vehicle was used as unauthorized collateral for a financing agreement in Canoas, leading to legal restrictions on the property despite the victim possessing the original invoice.

In a broader crackdown, the Public Ministry of Rio Grande do Sul launched ‘Operação Multiplicação’ to dismantle a predatory lending ring in the Serra Gaúcha region, specifically targeting Bento Gonçalves and Carlos Barbosa. This operation targeted a group suspected of moving approximately R$ 32.3 million through abusive interest rates and extortion between January 2022 and November 2023.

Investigators reported that the group used ties to organized crime to intimidate debtors, including instances of arson to enforce threats. The operation, which involved raids across 13 locations, resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the investigation of eight others. Authorities seized weapons, ammunition, electronic devices, and documents, while the judiciary ordered the freezing of three properties and seven vehicles. The individuals face potential charges of extortion, criminal organization, usury, and money laundering.

## Claims

- The Brazilian Federal Public Prosecutor's Office filed a lawsuit against Shell Brasil. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The lawsuit seeks compensation for the 2024 floods in Rio Grande do Sul. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The total amount claimed is approximately R$ 541 million. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The claim is based on Shell's estimated 2% contribution to historical global greenhouse gas emissions. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The 2024 floods in Rio Grande do Sul resulted in 183 deaths. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Approximately 500,000 people were displaced by the floods. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The NGO Instituto Preservar is a co-author of the lawsuit. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-10: Shell Brasil sued for R$ 541 million over 2024 floods

Brazilian prosecutors have sued Shell Brasil for R$ 541 million, citing the company's role in global warming following the deadly 2024 floods in Rio Grande do Sul.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rio-grande-do-sul-police-target-r-32-million-predatory-lending-scheme

### 2026-10-09: Várzea Grande police arrest youth for selling bank account used in R$ 50,000 scam

A 19-year-old in Várzea Grande was arrested for selling his bank account to facilitate a R$ 50,000 PIX scam against an elderly man.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/farmer-reports-vehicle-fraud-in-rio-grande-do-sul

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Cite as: Predatory lending and fraud in Rio Grande do Sul. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/predatory-lending-and-fraud-in-rio-grande-do-sul