Influencer Buzeira Arrested in Major International Money Laundering Operation Linked to PCC and Neymar
Brazilian influencer Buzeira was arrested in a large-scale international money laundering operation linked to the PCC and high-profile celebrities like Neymar.
- • Buzeira arrested during Operation Narco Bet targeting money laundering linked to international drug trafficking.
- • Federal Police executed 19 search warrants and blocked R$ 630 million in assets across four states.
- • Luxury weapons arsenal seized at Buzeira's residence in São Paulo.
- • Buzeira promoted online raffles and electronic betting to launder drug profits.
- • Close ties to celebrities, including gifting Neymar a R$ 2 million gold necklace.
Key details
Bruno Alexssander Souza Silva, known as Buzeira, a 28-year-old influencer with over 15 million Instagram followers, was arrested on October 14 as part of Operation Narco Bet, a Federal Police initiative targeting a major money laundering scheme connected to the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), an organized crime group. This extensive investigation also led to 11 arrests and 19 search warrants executed across four Brazilian states: São Paulo, Santa Catarina, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais, with R$ 630 million in assets blocked.
During the raid on Buzeira’s upscale home in Igaratá, São Paulo, authorities seized a significant arsenal, including rifles, pistols, ammunition, tactical gear, and communication devices. Investigators revealed that the criminal network laundered drug trafficking proceeds through online gambling platforms, electronic betting, and raffles promoted by Buzeira, who flaunted a luxurious lifestyle featuring expensive cars, jewelry, and private jet travel.
Buzeira’s public persona included high-profile connections to celebrities, most notably soccer star Neymar Jr. Buzeira gifted Neymar a gold necklace worth approximately R$ 2 million during a cruise event, calling Neymar his "greatest reference" on social media. The influencer’s lavish wedding in July 2025, estimated to have cost R$ 10 million and attended by notable figures, further demonstrated his extravagance.
The ongoing investigation follows Operation Narco Vela and unveils a sophisticated transnational operation involving Brazil, Europe, and the United States. The criminal enterprise used cryptocurrencies, shell companies, and international remittances to obscure money origins. Authorities also highlighted the involvement of businessman Rodrigo Morgado, known for a controversial raffle scam, among those arrested.
As of now, Buzeira has not issued a public statement, and his legal team has not been reached. The charges are expected to include money laundering and participation in organized crime, reflecting the deep intertwining of Brazil’s celebrity culture and criminal networks.