Brazilian Influencer Arrested for Alleged Drug Trafficking Operations

A Brazilian influencer, known for her posts promoting cannabis culture, has been arrested following allegations of leading an interstate drug trafficking and money laundering operation. Melissa Said, 23, was apprehended after a manhunt that began on Wednesday, when police raided five properties associated with her in northeast Brazil, according to the local news outlet Correio.

Said, who has over 340,000 followers on Instagram, is suspected of heading a significant criminal gang involved in the distribution of cannabis across the states of Bahia and São Paulo. Authorities claim she encouraged the smuggling of illegal substances and provided advice to her followers on how to evade law enforcement during drug transport.

Details of the Arrest and Investigation

The arrest occurred at a friend’s residence in Bahia after an extensive surveillance and intelligence operation by the Bahia Civil Police. Police investigations began in early 2024 when Said was reportedly caught with drugs at an airport. She allegedly advised her followers on drug transportation and even promoted herself by distributing “kits” containing joints on the streets.

The raids were part of a larger operation named Operation Erva Afetiva—a phrase that translates to “weed-loving” and echoes her Instagram bio. During these operations, police detained three individuals believed to be her accomplices. Notably, one accomplice faces drug trafficking charges after authorities seized 1.4 kilograms of “skank” marijuana and 270 grams of hashish, among other items linked to criminal activity.

Police also recovered digital scales, plastic bags, mobile phones, bank cards, and two vehicles thought to be involved in the drug operation. The identity of the third person taken into custody has not been disclosed.

Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigation

The director of the State Department for Prevention and Suppression of Drug Trafficking, Ernandes Junior, stated, “The objective of this operation is to combat drug trafficking, with the main target being a digital influencer who promotes crime.” He emphasized that Said not only promoted drug use but was also involved in the sale and distribution of narcotics in Bahia, with connections to suppliers in São Paulo.

If convicted, Said could face a maximum sentence of up to 25 years in prison. Following her arrest, she is scheduled to meet with her lawyer for questioning and will undergo a forensic examination before a custody hearing, as reported by Correio.

In her last Instagram video, posted on October 2, 2023, Said discussed cannabis legalization while appearing to smoke what seemed to be a joint. The influencer, who had previously gained attention for her activism on marijuana legalization, was married to fellow influencer Tássio Bacelar, who tragically died in a bicycle accident in October 2023.

The investigation into Melissa Said’s alleged role in drug trafficking remains active, as authorities continue to unravel the extent of her alleged criminal activities.