On the morning of April 10, 2025, the Federal Police (PF) launched a significant operation targeting the mayor of Sorocaba, Rodrigo Manga, a member of the Republicanos party. This operation, named "Copia e Cola," aims to dismantle a suspected criminal organization involved in the misappropriation of public funds allocated for healthcare services in the municipality.
According to reports from CNN Brasil and confirmed by EXAME, federal agents executed a search and seizure warrant at the mayor's home in Sorocaba, located in the interior of São Paulo. The investigation, which began in 2022, was sparked by suspicions of fraud related to the contracting of a Social Organization (OS) tasked with managing and executing healthcare services in Sorocaba.
Rodrigo Manga, who gained national recognition through viral videos on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, has amassed nearly three million followers. His online presence has significantly raised his profile, especially after announcing his pre-candidacy for the presidency in 2026, contingent upon the current governor, Tarcísio de Freitas, also from the Republicanos party, seeking re-election.
As part of the operation, more than 100 federal police officers are executing 28 search and seizure warrants across various locations. These include not only Sorocaba but also cities like Araçoiaba da Serra, Votorantim, Itu, São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Santo André, São Caetano do Sul, Santos, Socorro, Santa Cruz do Rio Pardo, and Osasco in São Paulo state, as well as a warrant executed in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia.
The investigation has revealed that the suspected criminal organization may have diverted as much as R$ 20 million (approximately $4 million) in public funds. Allegations include money laundering activities, with investigators identifying suspicious transactions such as cash deposits, bill payments, and real estate dealings.
In addition to the search at Manga's residence, authorities also conducted searches at city hall offices, the municipal party headquarters, and the home of former secretary Vinícius Rodrigues. The PF has indicated that those involved in the investigation could face serious charges, including passive and active corruption, money laundering, embezzlement, illegal direct contracting, and frustration of bidding processes.
The PF's operation has not only put the mayor under scrutiny but has also raised questions about the integrity of public health funding in Sorocaba. As detailed by the PF, the investigation's roots can be traced back to 2022, when suspicions arose regarding fraudulent activities in the hiring of the Social Organization responsible for managing health resources.
With the operation unfolding, the Sorocaba city government has yet to respond publicly to the allegations or the ongoing investigation. The lack of immediate comment adds to the tension surrounding the mayor's political future, especially as he positions himself for a potential presidential run.
For residents of Sorocaba and political observers alike, the implications of this investigation could be far-reaching. It not only highlights issues of corruption within local administrations but also raises concerns about the management of healthcare resources, especially in a time when public health is of utmost importance.
As the situation develops, the eyes of the nation remain on Rodrigo Manga and the outcomes of the PF's investigation. Will he be able to navigate these serious allegations while maintaining his political aspirations? Only time will tell.
