Police launch macro operation in six states against a scheme that allegedly made more than 11 million reais through illegal gambling

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Brazil uncovers criminal match-fixing ring involving footballers and managers

Brazil's Civil Police have launched a large-scale operation in six states to dismantle a criminal organisation dedicated to manipulating football match results, allegedly involving players, coaches and club officials.

The operation, coordinated by the Goiás state police, included 16 arrest and search warrants targeting what they describe as a hierarchical structure of sports corruption, with defined roles between financiers, intermediaries and executors.

According to investigators, the network is said to have fraudulently obtained at least 11 million Brazilian reais (about 1.8 million dollars or 1.6 million euros) through manipulated sports betting platforms.

Former referee arrested and more involved under investigation

One of those arrested during the day was former referee D'Guerro Batista Xavier, 46, who was arrested in João Pessoa, capital of the state of Paraíba. The former referee had been suspended since 2018 for similar alleged irregularities, although he continued to referee at amateur level.

Although the official statement did not reveal further identities, it does confirm that investigations are ongoing into active members of professional football, which could lead to further arrests in the coming days.

The Senate and Romário, against illegal betting

The case has generated national alarm and coincides with recent investigations by the Brazilian Senate, which created a commission to analyse the impact of illegal betting in football. Former footballer and senator Romário has been one of the main promoters of the initiative.

In his report, Romário warned of a recurring criminal pattern: the recruitment of low-paid players to influence the conduct of matches.

"Brazilian football is going through a critical stage where the integrity of the most popular sport in the world is being called into question. It is urgent to strengthen the control mechanisms and regain the confidence of the fans," said the former Barcelona and Valencia striker.