Petrobras receives another $202 million from Operation Car Wash

Since the beginning of Operation Car Wash, Petrobras has received $456 million embezzled from the state-controlled oil giant as part of a kickback scheme unearthed by prosecutors in Paraná state and the Federal Police.

Of this total, $202 million were returned today (Dec. 7). The amount was recovered by means of plea bargain and leniency deals with people and firms as part of the police crackdown. The funds were returned during an event in Curitiba, Paraná, attended by Petrobras CEO Pedro Parente.

In a note, the company says, “recognized by the authorities as the victim of wrongdoings brought to light by Car Wash, [Petrobras] will continue to take legal action against companies and individuals—among whom former employees and politicians—who have brought damage to the firm's finances as well as its image.”

The statement also notes that Petrobras is the co-author of 13 ongoing misconduct suits in collaboration with the Federal Prosecution Service, in addition to serving as assistant to the prosecution in 43 criminal cases.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira