Brazilian Influencer Arrested Leading Interstate Drug Trafficking Ring

Brazilian influencer Melissa Said, who has over 300,000 Instagram followers and is known for openly using and promoting marijuana, was arrested in Salvador, Brazil, on allegations of leading a drug trafficking and money laundering ring. Authorities accuse her of selling and distributing cannabis between Bahia and São Paulo, advising followers on evading police, and organizing a criminal network, although Said denies involvement beyond her social media content and claims no one should be arrested for smoking marijuana. Her arrest was part of a broader law enforcement operation called "Operation Erva Afectiva," which also led to multiple other arrests and the seizure of drugs, money, and electronic devices. Brazilian law prohibits the sale of cannabis, and Said faces up to 25 years in prison, despite Brazil's recent decriminalization of small amounts for personal use. Police investigations began after Said was reportedly detained at an airport in 2024 for alleged possession of drugs. Said remains in temporary custody while the investigation continues, with authorities emphasizing their goal to combat drug trafficking linked to digital influencers promoting drug use.