In a significant operation named Rastro Cirúrgico, the Federal Police of Brazil arrested Edgar Barbosa dos Santos, the former health secretary of Selvíria, on charges of diverting public funds from the Unified Health System (SUS). The arrest was made following a judicial order from the Regional Federal Court of the 3rd Region, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public health funding. Preliminary investigations have indicated that Santos was involved in a range of illicit activities, including embezzlement and fraudulent tender processes.

The investigation, which initially began back in August 2025, uncovered a network of corruption that allegedly included inflated contract values and misappropriation of public funds. Santos had already been suspended from his position when the inquiry was launched, which ultimately led to his formal dismissal. Subsequent seizures during the operation included luxury vehicles, jewelry, and firearms, indicating the scale of the investigation into public corruption within the municipal health department.

This case emphasizes the Brazilian government's crackdown on corruption, especially within the health sector, where public funds are critical for providing services to the population. As the investigation unfolds, it could lead to more arrests and a deeper examination of the management of health resources during Santos's tenure as secretary, thereby serving as a stern warning to others in positions of public trust about the serious ramifications of corruption.