São Paulo Civil Police launched Operation Helmintos against a PCC core suspected of laundering around one billion reais and exerting political influence in Praia Grande, in Baixada Santista. Four arrest warrants were executed against suspects identified as leaders and financial operators, in addition to searches, account and investment freezes and the seizure of 29 properties linked to those under investigation. The actions took place in Praia Grande, Guarujá, Santo André and Santana de Parnaíba.
According to the investigation, the group brought together faction leaders, financial operators, real estate market intermediaries and front persons used to launder drug trafficking money in the purchase of high-end properties, companies and commercial establishments.
Police identified four main areas of operation: real estate dealings, control of kiosks in public areas of Praia Grande, suspected favoritism in a municipal bidding process and financing or support for elected politicians.
