The Civil Police of São Paulo has carried out search and seizure warrants in 20 locations across the interior of São Paulo as part of an investigation into a suspected network promoting illegal online casinos.
The raids were conducted in cities across the state in an operation which targets a criminal organization suspected of operating illegal gambling platforms, fraud and money laundering.
According to investigators, authorities seized nine cars, two motorcycles, electronic devices, jewelry, semi-precious items and cash during the operation.
Police say the investigation centers on a group of digital influencers who allegedly used large social media profiles to promote unregulated online casinos.
Investigators claim the suspects displayed false winnings and large amounts of cash to persuade followers to join the platforms through affiliate links, in which victims would fall into the scam.
Authorities believe the network operated with a clear division of roles and coordinated behavior among participants.
The materials seized during the raids will now be analyzed in order to trace the financial flows linked to the scheme and identify its final beneficiaries.
In a separate case highlighting scrutiny of influencer-led promotions in the gambling sector, a Brazilian social media personality recently faced legal action over alleged irregularities related to an online giveaway.
Brazil’s betting regulator has also been increasing scrutiny over online gambling promotion practices, especially those carried out by social media and influencers.
Brazil’s Senate recently approved a bill that would ban advertising for fixed-odds betting and online gambling across the country
