Rio Prosecutors Launch Operation Against Refit Group Over Tax Fraud

The Rio de Janeiro Public Prosecutor's Office has launched Operation Charon to dismantle a tax evasion and money laundering scheme. The action focuses on the Refit Group and fuel sector companies controlled by businessman Ricardo Andrade Magro.

Authorities estimate the damage caused to the state exceeds 5.5 billion reais. The scheme involved a complex structure of importing and distributing petroleum derivatives that facilitated tax crimes.

Judicial detention and search warrants were issued against Magro's relatives and former company executives. The businessman, identified as the leader of the organization, remains a fugitive from Brazilian justice and is reportedly located in the United States.

Raids took place in several neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro and cities in the state of São Paulo. The operation relied on the collaboration of state and federal agencies to track assets and dismantle the network of companies linked to the group.

This case reinforces scrutiny regarding the fiscal integrity of large economic groups in the country. Legal instability and the risk of high tax claims may pressure the risk perception of energy sector companies on the Brazilian stock exchange.