Brazilian law enforcement has apprehended three individuals believed to be involved in the activities of the now-defunct crypto brokerage, Braiscompany. Earlier this year, the firm, known for promising investors up to 8% monthly returns on fiat or Bitcoin deposits, shut down amid allegations of fraudulent operations.
The detentions took place in Foz do Iguaçu, near the Brazil-Argentina border, as the suspects reportedly attempted to escape the country. Among the captured are Arthur and Sabrina Lima, a married couple suspected of being deeply involved in Braiscompany’s operations, As per the reports.Â
Previously in March, footage surfaced showing people, allegedly Braiscompany employees, emptying the company’s São Paulo offices. In response to these suspicious activities, Brazilian authorities launched Operation Halving in May, resulting in the issuance of multiple arrest warrants for company staff.
Braiscompany came under increased scrutiny after investors voiced their inability to withdraw funds from the platform in December 2022.
Following its closure, the firm’s executives are suspected of absconding with approximately $160 million in customer funds, leading authorities to label the company as a probable crypto pyramid scheme.
Arthur Lima is believed to have played a crucial role in the scheme, creating promotional videos and advising Antônio Neto, the alleged mastermind of the operation.
Meanwhile, Neto and FabrÃcia Campos, another significant figure in Braiscompany, remain at large. Both have been added to Interpol’s red list, effectively making them international fugitives subject to immediate arrest.
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Brazilian law enforcement’s continued investigation into this crypto fraud case underscores the nation’s commitment to safeguarding investors and ensuring the integrity of its burgeoning crypto market.
