Another Brazilian Influencer Investigated for Illegal Gambling and Money Laundering

Authorities in Brazil are investigating a digital influencer from Bahia for her alleged role in running illegal raffles, online gambling, and money laundering operations. The 46-year-old woman, known online as Lene Modas, is accused of using her social media presence to promote unlicensed betting disguised as fashion giveaways.

Good to Know

• Police executed two search and seizure warrants at her home and clothing store in Vitória da Conquista.
• Investigators believe the store acted as a front for laundering proceeds from gambling activities.
• Her assets, including bank accounts and investments, have been frozen by court order.

The operation, led by the Civil Police of Bahia, took place in the southwest region of the state. Officers seized multiple electronic devices—four mobile phones, two computers, and a tablet—believed to contain evidence linking her to the alleged illegal schemes.

Investigators say Lene Modas used her online platform of over 100,000 followers to run raffles and prize draws under the guise of business promotions for her fashion brand. The raffles were allegedly used to conceal gambling activity and generate illicit income.

Police sources confirmed that the case is part of a broader campaign targeting digital gambling rings in the region. Several similar investigations have emerged across Bahia and neighboring states, where online raffles and influencer-led betting schemes have become increasingly common.

Authorities suspect that proceeds from the illegal raffles were funneled through her retail business to create a facade of legitimate sales. The influencer’s financial records, investment portfolios, and property assets have been frozen while forensic analysis of seized devices continues.

So far, no formal charges have been filed. Police have not disclosed the influencer’s full name, and her legal defense has not commented publicly.

The situation mirrors growing international concern over influencer-driven gambling promotions. In Missouri, U.S. rapper Drake and streamer Adin Ross were recently named in a class action lawsuit accusing them of promoting unlicensed gambling through the crypto casino Stake—another example of social media’s link to illicit gaming activity.

Other Brazilian influencers recently under investigation for alleged links to illegal gambling include:

• Bia Miranda – Identified in operations targeting influencers promoting unlicensed casino sites linked to money laundering and shell companies.
• Tainá Sousa – Arrested as part of a broader crackdown and cited in media coverage of influencer-led gambling promotions.
• Virgínia Fonseca – Named in a Senate report for allegedly misleading followers with simulated bets in livestreams tied to unregulated platforms.

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