Chainalysis named MTI theJohann Steynberg’s last public appearance during a monthly MTI leadership Q&A Zoom call — he disappeared shortly afterwardMTI completely collapsed after that, although members had been complaining about delayed withdrawals for several weeks leading up to that point. Liquidation proceedings were instituted shortly thereafter.A specialist team of Brazil’s Goiás state Military Police called Giro made the arrest.
Upon searching the home, police found the Edson Pereira de Almeida identity document, which used Steynberg’s photograph. Steynberg apparently disavowed any knowledge of actually using his fake IDs. However, he also said he bought them because his life was in danger in South Africa. At the same time, his first girlfriend, Adriele Alencar, was arranging the purchase of property on his behalf.
Rodrigo also apparently offered to supply cocaine, which Steynberg accepted. Police reported that Rodrigo sent Steynberg a picture of the product, describing it as “pure”.In his verdict, the judge found Steynberg guilty of using forged documents with aggravating circumstances and sentenced him to three years and six months in prison.