Brazil Uncovers International Human Trafficking Network Posing as Betting Industry Recruitment

Brazil’s Federal Police have launched an international operation dubbed Dark Bet targeting an iGaming network suspected of labor exploitation and human trafficking disguised as recruitment for online betting jobs. The investigation was reported by iGamingToday.

The probe began after Nigerian authorities detained 109 people in Nigeria, including five Brazilian nationals. According to investigators, Brazilian citizens were recruited through social media and messaging apps with promises of high-paying jobs in online poker and sports betting.

However, once abroad, the working conditions reportedly differed sharply from what had been advertised. Workers allegedly had their passports confiscated, their freedom of movement restricted, and were kept under strict control — in some cases with the involvement of armed guards, police said.

Investigators also believe that some victims were forced to take part in cybercrime activities.

As part of the operation, a Brazilian court ordered the suspension of companies linked to the case and the blocking of two betting websites.

The names of the platforms have not been officially disclosed, though Brazilian media report that the bookmakers 6z and Afun may be involved. Law enforcement authorities have not confirmed this information.

Gambling Park notes that 11 searches were carried out across five Brazilian states during Operation Dark Bet. Four suspects were arrested, and authorities approved the freezing of assets worth approximately 446 million reais (about $68 million). The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted with international cooperation.