Rio de Janeiro Civil Police are examining evidence seized from influencers suspected of promoting illegal online gambling. The investigation centers on BR40 million ($7.3 million) moved over two years.
Maurício Martins Júnior, known as Maumau, was arrested last Thursday. He has more than 3 million online followers.
Bia Miranda is also under investigation. Police plan to hear statements from several suspects in coming days.
Maumau was arrested in Arujá, São Paulo. Officers found a firearm during their search of his home.
Why This Arrest Happened
The influencer says police found the weapon while executing a search warrant for an unrelated matter. He claims the firearm was a gift from a friend after making a shooting range video last year.
Maumau stated he didn’t know the weapon had a defaced serial number. The gun was stored unused in a shoebox, according to his account.
He voluntarily handed over the weapon when officers asked about money, drugs or valuables. Maumau says he told them he had none of these items.
The arrest stems from suspected illegal gambling promotion. But Maumau denies any connection to unlawful betting activities.
What the Influencer Claims About His Business
Maumau posted a video on social media explaining his situation. He said his arrest wasn’t connected to gambling activity at all.
The influencer claims he’s worked with a betting company for two years that is “100% legalised.” His role is limited to advertising only, he states.
He gets no share of follower losses from betting. This contradicts typical affiliate arrangements where promoters earn from player losses.
Police were investigating a company he says was unrelated to him. The search warrant targeted this separate business matter.
How the Investigation Moves Forward
Civil Police will now analyse all materials seized during last week’s operation. This includes digital evidence and financial records from multiple suspects.
Investigators plan statement hearings with several people under investigation. Bia Miranda and other influencers will likely face questioning about their promotional activities.
The BR40 million figure suggests significant money movement over the two-year period. Police will trace these funds to understand the operation’s scope.
Social media influence in Brazil’s betting market has grown rapidly. This case may set precedents for how authorities handle influencer marketing in gambling.
The investigation continues as police work through seized evidence. More arrests or charges could follow depending on what the analysis reveals about the suspected illegal promotion network.
