A Brazilian pastor accused of fraud and quackery continues to request donations online, even after authorities froze more than 1 million reais (about $200,000) from his accounts. Luiz Henrique dos Santos Ferreira, widely known as “Prophet Santini,” has been under investigation in the so-called Operation Blasphemy but maintains a heavy digital presence, streaming live three times a day.
Allegations of Deception and Exploitation
According to prosecutors and police, Santini led a network of 22 people who collected more than 3 million reais in just three months. Investigators say the scheme charged up to 1,500 reais for supposed promises of healing and miracles.
The blocked funds were spread across Santini’s personal accounts and those tied to the Casa dos Milagres Church in São Gonçalo. Authorities also discovered that the mother of his two-year-old son received more than 2,600 deposits in only two months, totaling 425,000 reais. Evidence suggests she and Santini’s sister, who managed church finances, acted as intermediaries to conceal the money’s origins.
Police raids uncovered a telephone call center operating inside the church. About 70 contractors were hired online to impersonate prayer groups, send audio recordings, request PIX transfers, and meet fundraising targets. They were paid commissions based on the amounts collected.
Elderly worshippers were among the most frequent victims. One 62-year-old woman made 85 donations, while an 82-year-old man transferred money 19 times. Donors from 18 states and the Federal District were identified, many sending repeated contributions in the hope of receiving blessings in return.
Prosecutor Bruno Humelino emphasized the distinction between faith-based giving and crime: “Religious contributions are legitimate when voluntary. But when lies are used to extract money, the act is fraudulent.”
Santini, who has worn an ankle monitor since the operation, denies wrongdoing. He claims to be a victim of religious persecution and insists he has served as a pastor for more than a decade. Meanwhile, the Public Prosecutor’s Office is preparing to expand the investigation, focusing on possible money laundering. Authorities say the case highlights how schemes disguised as religious practices can undermine both believers’ finances and freedom of faith.