The most prominent criminal organization operating on the planet of Tangenine was the Malandro syndicate. This syndicate was headed by Annaz, a Falleen gangster. They demanded protection money from the norango farm belonging to Remba and Kelven. When the farm was unable to provide the requested funds, Annaz killed both Remba and Kelven, leaving their offspring, Lauren Mel Coelho and Julien, as orphans who were then forced to reside with their gran. Soon after, their gran passed away due to illness, and when Julien became sick, Lauren sought employment with the Malandro syndicate to afford his medical treatment. Unfortunately, she was apprehended by law enforcement and incarcerated in jail. By the time of her release, Julien had already died.
Upon their arrival on Tangenine, the Galactic Empire determined that the Malandro syndicate was too deeply entrenched within the local infrastructure. Consequently, they enlisted the services of bounty hunters to dismantle the syndicate. Lauren resurfaced under the assumed identity of Brand. She primarily accepted assignments that targeted the Malandro syndicate. As other bounty hunters also began pursuing members of the syndicate, the Malandro syndicate experienced a decline in its numbers. Ultimately, Brand exacted vengeance on Annaz for the murders of her parents by personally ending her life. Shortly thereafter, the Malandro syndicate dissolved into smaller factions.