An investigation conducted by police in Treviso, Italy, released on Monday (07/10), reveals a scheme that involves 160 Brazilians who were granted Italian citizenship through irregular processes.
The fraud, which occurred between October 2018 and 2022, facilitated access to Italian citizenship for Brazilians without them meeting the legal residency requirements. Those involved, including three local police officers, face charges of falsifying documents and materials.
The false residence and the participation of the police
According to investigations, the Brazilians arrived in the city of Cross Montelloin the province of Treviso, with only one suitcase, they resided for a few days in pre-selected apartments to simulate fulfilling the residency requirement necessary to obtain Italian citizenship by descent. ( "jure sanguinis").
Among the ten indicted, in addition to the Brazilians who acted as intermediaries in the scheme, are three local police officers — known as vigile — who, according to investigators, illegally certified the applicants' residence.
Even with the constant change of tenants in the same properties, the police did not question the validity of the rental contracts and temporary residences.
The role of Brazilian intermediaries
The scheme was supported by six Brazilians, resident in the region, who operated agencies to facilitate administrative processes.
These intermediaries provided comprehensive services to help their fellow citizens obtain citizenship, including falsifying lodging declarations and assisting in compiling the necessary documents.
They would also have access to privileged information about local authorities’ vetting deadlines, allowing them to adjust the timing of applicants’ entry and exit from properties.
Implications and next steps
In addition to the intermediaries and the police, a 74-year-old Italian woman was also indicted for giving her residence to nine Brazilians during the period under investigation, facilitating the simulation of the housing required in the process.
Now, all those accused have 20 days to present a defense and try to avoid trial, according to the newspaper. The Tribune.
* Article being updated
