Brazilian Federal Police and Rio de Janeiro’s Civil Police have arrested Adilson Oliveira Coutinho Filho, known as “Adilsinho,” described by authorities as one of the most dangerous figures in the state’s illegal gambling underworld.
The arrest took place at a mansion in Cabo Frio, in the Região dos Lagos, where the suspect had allegedly been hiding for over a year.
According to police, this was the third attempt to apprehend him, with officials mentioning alleged protection networks as a factor complicating previous efforts.
Adilsinho is accused of operating illegal jogo do bicho activities and leading a criminal organization involved in cigarette counterfeiting through clandestine factories.
Jogo do bicho (animal game) is an illegal lottery-style gambling operation that originated in the late 19th century in Brazil and remains widespread despite being prohibited under federal law.
Authorities state that Oliveira had five outstanding arrest warrants and is under investigation in at least 20 cases involving alleged homicides, attempted killings and kidnappings.
Police allege that the crimes were linked to disputes over control of illegal cigarette markets and gambling operations. According to investigators, the organization is believed to have generated approximately BR50m ($9.7m) per month.
Felipe Curi, Rio’s Secretary of Civil Police, alleged that the suspect was responsible for “dozens of homicides” involving rivals and other individuals connected to illegal gambling and cigarette networks.
The defense of Adilson Oliveira stated that he trusts the justice system and intends to prove his innocence.
Brazilian prosecutors have previously investigated alleged police involvement in Adilson’s illegal networks.
A recent survey found that 40% of Brazilian gamblers report being in debt
