A social media influencer has been arrested in the Brazilian state of Goiás on suspicion of promoting illegal raffles and profiting more than BR600,000 from the scheme – the suspect is now in ‘preventive detention’ and is accused of various crimes.
Police said the suspect allegedly organized and promoted the raffles through social media platforms, offering prizes such as cars and cash to participants who bought numbered entries.
According to investigators, the raffles were conducted without the necessary legal authorization, which is required for promotional prize draws in Brazil.
The authorities also believe the influencer may have misled participants about aspects of the operation.
The arrest took place in Porangatu, in northern Goiás, following an investigation led by the state’s Civil Police. Officials confirmed that the case had already been subject to a formal inquiry before being escalated.
Illegal raffles and online prize draws have become an increasing focus for Brazilian authorities in recent years as social media personalities promote such schemes to large online audiences.
The investigation remains ongoing and authorities have not ruled out additional charges.
During a previous police operation the suspect's wife was also targeted by law enforcement
