Brazilian authorities have carried out separate enforcement actions in São Paulo state targeting illegal gambling activities, including a scheme involving digital influencers and another linked to land-based slot machines.
In Sorocaba, five influencers were investigated as part of Operation “Zero Degree,” led by the Civil Police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
According to authorities, the group used videos of dangerous motorbike stunts, including wheelies and street racing, to generate engagement on social media before promoting illegal betting activities.
Police said the content was part of a structured funnel that began with traffic violations and escalated into financial crimes.
“They committed traffic offenses, extremely dangerous maneuvers, street races and altered license plates. After that, they posted these videos on social media, gained engagement and moved on to other crimes related to consumer relations, which were illegal raffles, prizes and betting,” said delegate Rodrygo Ayres.
The investigation found that users were encouraged to participate in online raffles linked to prizes valued at more than BR50,000 ($9,791). According to authorities, proceeds from these activities were later channelled through schemes designed to give the funds an appearance of legitimate origin.
“Through these raffles they obtained various profits, and then moved on to another crime, which is money laundering.”
Separate operation targets illegal slot machines
In a separate case in Guareí, also in São Paulo state, police seized four illegal slot machines during an operation targeting unauthorised gambling.
The owner of the establishment had previously been investigated for the same offense, with BR7,000 seized at the time.
Despite earlier enforcement, authorities said the machines had been reinstalled and operations resumed. In addition to the equipment, officers seized four mobile phones and materials linked to the “jogo do bicho.”
The suspect claimed he had been misinformed about the legality of operating gambling services at the venue. Investigations are ongoing.
