The Public Ministry of Rio de Janeiro (MPRJ) has reopened an investigation concerning Carlos Bolsonaro, former city councilor and son of President Jair Bolsonaro, alongside 25 other individuals. The inquiry focuses on allegations of embezzlement of public funds through a scheme known as 'rachadinha', which involves employing ghost workers to siphon off salaries intended for public employees. This decision stemmed from the Prosecutor General of Justice (PGJ), which concluded that the previous investigation failed to pursue essential lines of inquiry.

The MPRJ’s move to continue the investigation follows a review of earlier findings, revealing that significant investigative trails, such as the withdrawal of funds from a bank safe and the questionable acquisition of an apartment by Carlos Bolsonaro, were inadequately explored. The PGJ's document, which was exclusively obtained by GloboNews, emphasizes the necessity of further probing to clarify the facts surrounding these allegations. This renewed scrutiny highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within Brazilian political circles, particularly regarding individuals closely tied to President Bolsonaro.

Initially, this investigation had been shelved in September 2024, but the PGJ has now determined that the evidence necessitates renewed efforts to ensure comprehensive accountability. The reopening of the case signals a continued commitment by the Public Ministry to address corruption in public office, against the backdrop of rampant claims and political turbulence within Brazil’s governance framework.