Gusttavo Lima Arrest Warrant Lifted Over Allegations of Illegal Gambling

An appellate judge in Brazil has revoked an arrest warrant issued against the famous Brazilian singer, Gusttavo Lima.  Allegations against him include illegal gambling and money laundering.

On Monday this week, Judge Andréa Calado da Cruz issued a pre-trial arrest warrant against Lima.

Darwin Henrique da Silva Filho, along with his wife, turned themselves into authorities earlier this month. Filho is the CEO of Esportes da Sorte, the gambling company at the center of the sprawling investigation.  Also implicated is popular internet influencer Deolane Bezerra.

From GamblingNews.com:

The probe, which kicked off in December 2022, has led to the arrest of several people and the confiscation of valuable assets such as fancy cars, properties, and planes. The police have seized over BRL3 billion ($535.8 million) from different accounts tied to the shady dealings they are looking into. This cash comes from unlawful gambling operations, including the well-known “jogo do bicho” and other unauthorized betting rackets.

In a statement, Darwin Filho said he was surprised by the tough action against him. He pointed out his ongoing work to follow legal rules and his push to regulate sports betting in Brazil. He pledged to help with the investigation and stick to legal steps. Filho stressed that he has always backed legal practices in the betting world. He is sure the courts will sort out the situation.

Lima's representative soundly rejecting the allegations.

“Gusttavo Lima would never be involved in any act contrary to the law of our country and there is no involvement on his part or that of his companies."

The situation surrounding Lima, whose real name is Nivaldo Batista Lima, cast a spotlight on how a sudden boom in unregulated online gambling has become a growing criminal headache and public health crisis for Brazil.

Lima started his career at the age of 7, with his elder brothers Willian and Marcelo, as a member of the Trio Remelexo.   His big hits include Balada and Choro do Calado.