Brazil TCU flags R$654M irregular seguro-defeso payments, potential R$3.06B

Brazil's federal audit court (TCU) identified irregular spending of R$654 million in the seguro-defeso program, prompting a review of 101,200 benefits paid to artisanal fishermen. The audit estimates potential improper payments of up to R$3.06 billion in 2024, signaling systemic control weaknesses in social benefit administration.