Brazilian influencer Raphael Sousa Oliveira, founder of the social media page Choquei, is being held in a maximum-security unit in Goiás following his arrest in a federal investigation into a suspected BR1.6bn illegal betting and money laundering scheme.
‘Choquei’ is a massive Brazilian social media gossip and entertainment news profile in social media, known for viral celebrity gossip and over 27 million followers.
According to authorities, Oliveira was identified as a “media operator” within the organization, allegedly responsible for promoting platforms linked to illegal betting and supporting the public image of those involved.
The investigation suggests the scheme operated through a combination of unauthorized betting sites, digital raffles, shell companies and crypto transactions.
Police say Oliveira received BR370,000 from artist MC Ryan SP for advertising services, with BR270,000 traced to transactions between 2024 and 2025 and a further BR100,000 linked to an unidentified source.
Investigators are examining whether these payments were connected to the wider financial structure under scrutiny.
He was arrested in Goiânia as part of Operation Narco Fluxo, which was carried out across nine states and involved multiple search and arrest warrants.
Oliveira is currently detained under standard prison conditions, with access to daily routines including meals, limited visitation and supervised outdoor time, according to the state’s penal authorities.
His legal team has pushed back against the allegations, stating that he operates as a legitimate digital entrepreneur providing advertising and content services. In a statement, his defense said he remains “calm and confident” and believes the investigation will clarify the legality of his activities.
Audio evidence in the same investigation suggests MC Ryan SP charged up to BR400,000 per day to promote betting platforms
