Brazilian authorities launched a police operation in May 2026 to investigate suspected fraud in a public Wi-Fi contract with São Paulo City Hall [1].
The investigation targets Instituto Conhecer Brasil, an NGO linked to Karina Ferreira Gama. Gama is the sole partner of the producer behind the film “Dark Horse” [1]. The probe centers on whether irregularities occurred during the awarding and execution of a contract intended to expand internet access in peripheral neighborhoods of São Paulo [1].
At the center of the dispute is a contract valued at R$108 million [1]. The project aimed to install 5,000 Wi-Fi points across the city [1]. Other reports indicate the institute received more than R$100 million under the current administration [5].
Financial scrutiny has extended beyond the municipal contract. Records show that Deputy Mario Frias allocated R$2 million in parliamentary amendments to the NGO [3].
There are conflicting accounts regarding the funding. While the producer said she denied receiving public money [4], G1 said the NGO received the R$108 million contract from the city [1].
Investigators are examining the actual delivery of the 5,000 promised Wi-Fi points to determine if the funds were used as intended or if the contract was used as a vehicle for fraud [1].
“Authorities suspect irregularities and fraud in the awarding and execution of the contract.”
This investigation highlights the intersection of cultural production and public administration in Brazil. By linking a film producer to a massive municipal infrastructure contract and parliamentary amendments, the probe examines potential patronage networks and the misuse of public funds earmarked for digital inclusion in marginalized areas.
