A former commissioned employee and 13 other individuals have been found guilty of a scheme involving the diversion of gasoline and diesel from the Acre Penitentiary Administration Institute (Iapen-AC). This decision, made by the Criminal Organizations Court in Rio Branco, allows those convicted to appeal while remaining free. The charges included peculato, receiving stolen goods, and criminal association, where four defendants were directly engaged in the diversion operation, while the remaining ten were identified as buyers.

The investigation revealed that this illicit operation siphoned off approximately 10,000 liters of fuel monthly over a period from 2018 until November 2021, when law enforcement launched the first phase of Operation Ouro Negro. The fuel was allegedly sold to local entrepreneurs and farmers for about R$ 1.50 per liter, which is significantly cheaper than the market price at service stations, raising concerns about the integrity of public resources and commercial practices in the region.

The ruling reflects ongoing issues of corruption within public institutions in Brazil, particularly in sectors involving resource management. The case highlights not only the need for stringent oversight of public service operations but also the broader implications of corruption in undermining public trust and resource integrity. With appeals available, it remains to be seen how the judicial process will unfold for the convicted individuals, but this case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in tackling corruption at various levels of governance in Brazil.