Jailed Mastermind of South African Bitcoin Scam Reportedly Getting Preferential Treatment in Brazilian Prison Allegations of Special TreatmentJohann Styenberg, the mastermind of the online bitcoin investment scam Mirror Trading International (MTI), has reportedly accessed a computer and the internet while detained in a Brazilian prison. According to a local report, Steynberg has allegedly used the computer to access the internet from inside the Goiás prison warden’s office.
Accusations and AppealsIn addition to using the warden’s office to access the internet, the MTI mastermind is also accused of rendezvousing with his
“wife” and lawyer in this office. Steynberg has been in detention since his arrest in
December 2021 for using forged identity documents. A
Brazilian court has since sentenced the CEO of the collapsed bitcoin scam entity to three and a half years in prison for the crime. However,
Steynberg, who faces extradition to either the U.S. or
South Africa, has appealed the ruling.
Calls for Investigation and International InvolvementThe fresh allegations against Steynberg were reportedly made by Maxsuel Miranda das Neves, the president of the Union of
Servers of the Penal Execution System (SINSEP-GO) in the State of Goiás. In a video shared via Instagram, Miranda das Neves said he has since asked the director general of the prison to investigate the matter. The
SINSEP leader said he plans to raise this matter with the FBI, Interpol, the U.S. Embassy, and the Brazilian judge who is handling Steynberg’s fake documents case.
Confirmation and InvestigationA report by
Portal da Bitcoin has stated that the
General Directorate of Penitentiary Administration (DGAP) has confirmed receiving Miranda das Neves’ complaint. The Criminal Police has reaffirmed that the fact is being investigated seriously and with commitment to the legislation. At the end of the investigation, the result will be announced.
