Operation investigates suspected fraud and overpricing in the purchase of textbooks in Bahia

The Federal Police (PF) and the Comptroller General of the Union (CGU) launched, this Wednesday (4), Operation Dear Reader, which investigates suspected fraud in a tender and diversion of public resources in the purchase of textbooks for the municipal education network in Serrinha, in the interior of Bahia.

The actions are carried out in four cities: Serrinha and Salvador, in Bahia, and Fortaleza and Eusébio, in Ceará.

The investigation began after a risk assessment carried out by the CGU and investigated possible irregularities in Electronic Auction No. 012/2024, which resulted in the hiring of two companies for R$5,953,359.

The analyzes identified signs of bidding direction, links between participating companies and suspicious financial movements. Payments were made with resources from the Basic Education Maintenance and Development Fund (Fundeb), in municipal accounts that received supplementation from the Union.

The control bodies also pointed out signs of overpricing. According to the survey, the books acquired by the city hall would have been contracted for values ​​significantly higher than those published for sale on the website of the publisher responsible for the works.

The searches aim to collect documents, electronic devices and other materials related to the investigation. The warrants are served at addresses of individuals, companies and Serrinha City Hall.

The crimes investigated are bid fraud, embezzlement of public funds, money laundering and criminal organization. Investigations continue to clarify the conduct of those involved and the allocation of public resources, the PF reported.

g1 contacted the Municipality of Serrinha to ask for a position and is awaiting feedback.