Operation targets scheme that generated R$4 billion in revenue from the 'Tigrinho' game; influencers are targets

Rio de Janeiro's Civil Police launched Operation Misfortune on Thursday, the 7th, investigating 15 digital influencers suspected of involvement in promoting online gambling , money laundering, and participating in a criminal organization. Among the targets are well-known figures like Bia Miranda, with over 5 million followers on social media, and Buarque, who has over 3 million.

The offensive mobilized agents in the states of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais, with the aim of executing 31 search and seizure warrants. According to investigations, the influencers used social media to promote illegal betting platforms, such as the game known as "Tigrinho," through posts with misleading promises of easy winnings.

Authorities say the content promoted these illicit activities as quick profit opportunities, in an attempt to attract followers — many of them young — to betting systems that are banned by law.

During the investigation, conducted by the Department to Combat Organized Crime and Money Laundering (DCOC-LD), with support from the Asset Recovery Office (GRA) and the Anti-Money Laundering Technology Laboratory (Lab-LD), suspicious bank transactions exceeding R$4 billion were identified. Reports from the Financial Activities Control Council (COAF) indicate that this financial volume is inconsistent with the income declared by those under investigation.

In addition to the illegal advertising activity, the police maintain that those involved were part of an organized criminal structure, with clearly defined roles among influencers, financial operators, and shell companies. This network was used to mask the illicit origin of the funds, constituting the crime of money laundering.

Investigations also indicate that some of those investigated had ties to individuals who already have criminal records linked to factions.

Images and videos shared by influencers on their social media channels show luxurious routines, including international travel, high-value vehicles, and sophisticated properties, which reinforced authorities' suspicions of illicit enrichment.

Bia Miranda and Buarque's defenses have not yet commented. The other targets have not yet been named by the police.