Brazilian Hacker Couple Denied Habeas Corpus After Stealing $1.4M in Crypto from Singaporean Victim

• Why Was the Habeas Corpus Denied?
• How Did the Crypto Scam Unfold?
• What’s Their Connection to the 2020 Caixa Hack?
• Could This Be Brazil’s Oldest Active Hacking Group?
• What’s Next for the Couple?
• FAQs

A notorious Brazilian hacker couple, involved in stealing R$7.8 million (US$1.4M) in cryptocurrencies from a Singaporean resident, has had their habeas corpus petition denied by Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice (STJ). The duo, linked to transnational cybercrimes and a historic Caixa Econômica Federal hack, remains in custody as investigations unfold. Here’s the full story.

Why Was the Habeas Corpus Denied?

The STJ upheld the arrest of the couple, citing their ability to destroy evidence and launder assets via cryptocurrencies. Minister Carlos Cini emphasized the risk of "dissipating illicit gains through cyber transactions," which could hinder victim compensation. The ruling followed a request from Singaporean authorities, who traced the stolen $1.4M in crypto to the duo between January 8–18, 2024.

How Did the Crypto Scam Unfold?

Dubbed "Operation CryptoScam," the investigation revealed the couple’s ties to a transnational crime ring. They allegedly infiltrated a Singaporean victim’s crypto wallet, siphoning funds through layered bank accounts and privacy coins. Forensic data from TradingView showed suspicious trades coinciding with the theft.

What’s Their Connection to the 2020 Caixa Hack?

In a parallel case ("Operation Pharming"), the couple’s shell company moved R$10.5M—linked to a 2020 attack on Caixa Econômica Federal that drained funds from Montes Claros City Hall. "They had no legitimate income to justify such transactions," noted court documents. Family members were reportedly used as money mules.

Could This Be Brazil’s Oldest Active Hacking Group?

Authorities suspect the duo leads a long-running cybercrime syndicate. Their modus operandi—using fake IDs, mixing services, and offshore exchanges—mirrors tactics flagged by CoinGlass in past crypto heists. The PF estimates their operations span at least four years.

What’s Next for the Couple?

With the STJ rejecting their appeal, the pair faces extended detention. Prosecutors are now tracing crypto trails to Binance and BTCC wallets. "This sets a precedent for cross-border crypto fraud cases," remarked a BTCC analyst.

Sources: Court filings, Singapore Police Force, TradingView.