5-3-2025 – After evading authorities for four years, Ricardo Rodrigues Gomes—widely known by his moniker “Piloto”—has been apprehended in Florida by American Homeland Security Investigations operating in concert with Brazilian Federal Police.
The arrest represents a significant breakthrough in one of Brazil’s most notorious financial scandals. As a principal figure in the GAS Consultoria enterprise, Piloto allegedly participated in an elaborate pyramid scheme that illicitly channelled more than R$ 38 billion between 2015 and 2021, according to intelligence gathered by Portal do Bitcoin.
Criminal portfolio extends beyond financial malfeasance
Gomes reportedly served as lieutenant to Glaidson Acácio dos Santos—dubbed the “Bitcoin Pharaoh”—who was himself detained in 2021. Authorities contend that following his departure from Brazil under false documentation, Piloto assumed responsibility for managing the organisation’s financial portfolio, including oversight of banking facilities and cryptocurrency transactions.
His notoriety earned him a place on Interpol’s Red Notice register from August 2022, marking him as internationally wanted.
Brazilian investigators have established connections between Piloto and numerous violent infractions. He purportedly orchestrated aggressive campaigns against GAS Consultoria’s business rivals and was captured on recording discussing assassination plots with Glaidson. Evidence suggests sophisticated surveillance techniques involving unmanned aerial vehicles to monitor intended targets, alongside facilitating remuneration for contract killers.
Historical links to narcotics trafficking
The criminal dossier assembled against Piloto contains yet more damning allegations. Law enforcement sources indicate he formerly maintained professional relations with the notorious Colombian narcotics kingpin Pablo Escobar, serving as an aviator transporting illicit substances—a role that seemingly inspired his underworld sobriquet.
Currently held in American custody, Piloto faces likely extradition proceedings to return him to Brazil, where potential sentences totalling 26 years await. His capture represents a critical development in dismantling remaining GAS Consultoria operations, although investigations continue into both financial improprieties and violent offences connected to the organisation.
Broader context of Brazilian cryptocurrency landscape
This criminal enterprise operates against the backdrop of Brazil’s emergence as a significant player in legitimate cryptocurrency adoption. The nation currently ranks sixth globally in digital asset ownership, with approximately 26 million citizens—representing 12% of the population—holding investments in the sector.
