Politics · Brazil · 2 hrs ago
Paraná investigates funds in alleged animal-fat tax evasion scheme
Brazilian authorities launched two operations targeting an alleged tax-evasion scheme involving trade in animal fat, used by biodiesel plants and leather tanneries.
The searches took place in 28 cities across Paraná, São Paulo, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul.
Investigators say meat processors sold the fat without proper invoices, while shell companies issued false invoices that let biodiesel plants claim tax credits.
The alleged scheme used investment funds to turn those invoices into cash that appeared legitimate.
Authorities carried out 64 search warrants and froze assets worth up to R$271.5 million; no one was arrested.
Investigators say 23 shell companies had R$316 million in established tax credits, while nine people face precautionary measures.
QI Tech says it provided information to investigators, is not itself under investigation, and that the events predate its 2024 purchase of Singulare; the case remains under judicial secrecy.
Paraná authorities carried out two operations investigating alleged ICMS tax evasion in the trade of animal fat and tallow.
Investigators say shell companies issued invoices for sales that did not take place, while investment funds helped move money from the scheme.
The operations served 64 search warrants in 28 cities across four states, and a court ordered the seizure or freezing of assets worth up to R$271.5 million.
Nine people face precautionary measures; no one was arrested.
QI Tech said it provided information to authorities and is not under investigation.
- Who
- The Paraná Public Prosecutor’s Office, Civil Police and Federal Revenue Service carried out the operations. Funds administered by Singulare Corretora and companies in the animal-fat supply chain are among the targets.
- What
- Authorities are investigating alleged ICMS tax evasion and money laundering involving animal-fat sales and investment funds.
- When
- The operations took place on Wednesday, November 4. The investigated financial operations reportedly date from 2016 to 2021.
- Where
- Searches took place in 28 cities in Paraná, São Paulo, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul.
- Why
- Investigators say shell companies issued invoices for nonexistent sales, creating tax credits and helping move funds from the alleged scheme.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
QI Tech said the financial operations under investigation took place during this period.
QI Tech acquired Singulare Corretora.
Authorities carried out the second phase of Operation Enxágue and Operation Catéter.
- Search warrants
- 64
- Cities searched
- 28
- States involved
- Paraná, São Paulo, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul
- Assets targeted
- Up to R$271.5 million
- Shell companies
- 23 noteiras with R$316 million in established tax credits
What people are saying
The role of QI Tech was to provide information to assist the investigations by the competent authorities.
The company reinforces that it is not being investigated.