PF investigates group that diverted health resources in PE

The Federal Police (PF) launched Operation Clan today (24), with the aim of combating crimes involving the diversion of health resources in Pernambuco. Suspected irregularities include the execution of management contracts entered into between the state health department and a suspicious “social organization”. “The alleged crimes would be linked to the targeted hiring of providers, fictitious execution of services, overbilling of amounts paid and concealment of misappropriated amounts. These occurrences involved the engagement of both foundation managers and entrepreneurs from outsourced companies, who have family/social ties with the group”, reported the PF. Seventeen search and seizure warrants are being carried out by 80 federal police officers and seven auditors from the Comptroller General of the Union (CGU) in the Pernambuco municipalities of Recife, Olinda and Paulista and in Aracaju (SE). The diligences seek “documents, reports, invoices and other evidence” that can help in proving criminal practices. According to investigators, two people involved will be removed from their duties. Outsourced companies “This social organization is responsible for signing contracts with the state government to manage important hospitals and UPAs. The irregularities identified do not refer to the provision of health services in the hospitals managed by the group, but to outsourced services of middle activity, such as hospital cleaning, supply of food, among others”, detailed in a note to the PF. According to the investigators, in just one contract – involving the social health organization and one of the investigated companies – the values ​​exceed R$ 89 million. “Even though it is not a public institution, the social organization in question is committed to complying with various laws and regulations when it starts making agreements with the state, as it receives public funds for the provision of services”, informs the PF. Among the crimes being investigated are embezzlement; criminal organization; tax evasion; and money laundering. Penalties can exceed 30 years of imprisonment. According to the PF, the name given to the operation (Clan) is due to the fact that the targets are part of a family group that is responsible for managing the companies linked to the investigated social organization.

Agência Brasil