VaideBet Scandal: Police Prepare Charges Against Corinthians Leadership
Beginning of the Investigation
One of the biggest football scandals in recent years is unfolding in Brazil.
Law enforcement authorities intend to press charges against club president Augusto Melo and former directors Sérgio Moura, Marcelo Mariano, and Yun Ki Lee.
The investigation is linked to a contract with the betting company VaideBet, which was terminated in June 2024 following the activation of an anti-corruption clause.
Essence of the Accusations
According to the Department of Police for the Protection of Citizens (DPPC), the case involves a money laundering scheme through a fake intermediary company.
Funds intended for the club were routed through Rede Social Media Design Ltda, officially owned by a low-income individual named Edna Oliveira dos Santos.
In reality, the company was managed by entrepreneur Alex Fernando André (also known as Alex Kassunde), who has ties to the club’s leadership.
Key Facts:
- Two transfers in March 2024 from Corinthians totaling $125,000 each (approximately 700,000 BRL) were sent to intermediary companies’ accounts.
- In an interview, Edna dos Santos stated that she has no connection to the business and lives on welfare in a poor neighborhood with her three children.
- Police believe the intermediary company had no real operations and was used solely to funnel money.
What is Known So Far
The investigation has been ongoing for about a year, and sufficient evidence has already been gathered for formal charges to be filed.
In early April 2025, the court granted access to case materials to the defendants and their lawyers, including sealed documents.
“There are grounds for charges of criminal association and money laundering derived from club-related activities.”
What’s Next
By early May 2025, police plan to complete the investigation and forward the case to court. VaideBet officially terminated its partnership with Corinthians in June 2024, which became a turning point and gave new momentum to the case.