Police launch ‘Tiger Hunting’ operation against illegal gambling in São Paulo

Authorities also seized assets and uncovered other crimes during the raid.

The Civil Police of the state of São Paulo have conducted an operation in São José do Rio Preto aimed at dismantling illegal gambling operations in the state’s countryside.

The action, named Tiger Hunting, focused on electronic gambling schemes including the widely known Fortune Tiger (Jogo do Tigrinho).

The alleged crimes include money laundering, asset concealment and participation in organized crime.

Investigators carried out five search and seizure warrants, including in luxury condominiums in São José do Rio Preto and at a rural property in a nearby municipality.

During the raids, one individual was charged with illegal possession of a firearm.

Authorities also rescued a captive capuchin monkey, which was sent to the Environmental Police, and confiscated a vehicle, a jet ski, cellphones and computer equipment, all of which will undergo forensic analysis.

The operation was coordinated by the Specialized Sector for Combating Corruption, Organized Crime and Money Laundering of the São José do Rio Preto Police Department for Investigations.

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Brazilian authorities have increasingly targeted illegal gambling activity in recent years, particularly electronic platforms that proliferate on social media, especially through influencer marketing.

Officials argue that beyond financial crimes, such schemes frequently overlap with wider criminal networks, further intensifying the need for enforcement measures.

The ongoing inquiry remains under judicial secrecy.

Carlos Mendez

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