Marcelo Caumo, who served as mayor of Lajeado from 2017 to 2024, was arrested by the Federal Police in a temporary operation that could last five days, with potential extensions. This arrest is part of an investigation into the alleged diversion of public funds from the National Social Assistance Fund aimed at repairing damage from flooding in Rio Grande do Sul. The current administration is not implicated in this investigation.

In addition to Caumo's arrest, a businesswoman connected to the group alleged to have benefited from the embezzlement was also detained, and a council member was removed from her position. However, their identities have not been disclosed. Named "Lamaçal," this investigation follows an earlier operation from November 2025, during which Caumo was the head of the State Secretary of Urban Development and subsequently resigned following the scandal’s exposure.

The Federal Police has stated that the investigation’s focus is on recovering diverted resources and ensuring accountability for those involved. The implications of this case can affect public trust in local government officials, especially in the context of previous administrative dealings concerning public funds for disaster recovery efforts in the region.