On Thursday, April 10, 2025, the Polícia Federal (PF) initiated a significant operation targeting alleged corruption within the health sector of Sorocaba, São Paulo. The operation, dubbed Copia e Cola, has placed the city's mayor, Rodrigo Manga, under intense scrutiny, along with several other officials. This high-profile investigation is a response to suspicions of public fund misappropriation that dates back to 2022.
During the early hours of the operation, over 100 federal officers executed 28 search and seizure warrants across 12 cities, including Sorocaba, Araçoiaba da Serra, and even extending to Vitória da Conquista in Bahia. The searches included Manga's residence, the Sorocaba City Hall, the local Health Department, and the municipal office of the Republicanos party, where Manga serves as a prominent figure.
Rodrigo Manga, who has been in office since 2021, rose to political fame as a social media savvy leader, often referred to as the “tiktoker mayor” for his engaging online presence. With over 3 million followers on TikTok and nearly 3 million on Instagram, Manga has captivated a younger audience through humorous and relatable videos. His popularity surged after he announced his candidacy for the presidency in 2026, following a successful re-election campaign in 2024.
However, the recent allegations paint a starkly different picture. The PF's investigation began after they uncovered potential fraud linked to the hiring of a Social Organization (OS) responsible for managing health services in Sorocaba. The authorities suspect that this organization was involved in diverting public resources intended for healthcare. Additionally, they have identified acts of money laundering, including suspicious cash deposits and real estate transactions.
As part of the investigation, the PF has ordered the seizure of assets estimated at R$ 20 million, which includes cash found at various locations, some of which was reportedly hidden in a vehicle trunk. The operation has also led to the prohibition of the involved Social Organization from entering into any contracts with the government.
Among those implicated alongside Manga is the former health secretary, Vinicius Rodrigues, who is also facing scrutiny regarding his role in the alleged corruption scheme. Furthermore, the investigation extends to Fausto Bossolo, the former secretary of Government and Administration, and even touches upon the involvement of a local church and a real estate entrepreneur.
Despite the gravity of the situation, no arrest warrants have been issued at this stage of the operation. The PF has indicated that those involved could face serious charges, including passive and active corruption, money laundering, embezzlement, illegal direct contracting, and frustration of bidding processes.
The public reaction to the unfolding events has been mixed. While Manga's supporters continue to rally behind him, citing his efforts to engage with the community through social media, critics are calling for accountability and transparency in light of the serious allegations. The operation has raised questions about the integrity of public officials and the management of public funds, especially in the healthcare sector, which has been under significant strain due to the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a recent interview, Manga attempted to shift the narrative, emphasizing his commitment to the citizens of Sorocaba and downplaying the accusations against him. "I am here to serve the people, and I will continue to do so, regardless of these challenges," he stated, reinforcing his stance as a public servant dedicated to his constituents.
As the investigation continues, the PF is expected to release more information regarding the findings and any further actions that may be taken against those involved. The outcome of this operation could have significant implications not only for Manga's political career but also for the broader landscape of political accountability in Brazil.
In the meantime, the residents of Sorocaba are left to grapple with the uncertainty surrounding their mayor's future and the integrity of the leadership they have elected. The eyes of the nation will undoubtedly remain fixed on Sorocaba as this story unfolds, with many hoping for clarity and justice in the wake of these serious allegations.
