In São Francisco do Guaporé, a small city in Brazil’s Rondônia state, a public servant has been removed from office following allegations of diverting approximately R$ 13 million from the municipal health department. The local police are investigating the case, and the involvement of federal resources has prompted the Federal Police to take action. The name of the suspect remains undisclosed at this stage of the investigation.

The mayor, Zé Wellington, revealed that the treasurer, who held a commissioned position for four years, has confessed to using part of the misappropriated funds for online gambling. While the official claims to have acted alone, the investigation is still ongoing to determine any potential involvement of others in this case. This scandal raises significant concerns about financial management and oversight in local government, especially regarding how public health funds are being protected.

The story has garnered local attention given that São Francisco do Guaporé is a small town with an estimated population of about 16,000. The implications of this case may be far-reaching, especially if further investigations uncover a larger network or systemic issues within municipal governance. The community's trust in local authorities is likely to be tested as residents seek explanations and accountability for the alleged misuse of public funds meant for health services.