Renowned Brazilian footballer, Gabriel Barbosa, more commonly known as Gabigol, was apprehended by authorities in Rio de Janeiro at an illicit gaming establishment.
The 24-year-old Flamengo forward was discovered during a law enforcement operation at a crowded gathering in the affluent district of Vila Olímpia. Footage disseminated by law enforcement depicted Gabigol being accompanied to a police vehicle, alongside approximately 200 other attendees.
The event violated the municipality’s COVID-19 safety regulations, and authorities were originally alerted to a “surreptitious gathering.” However, upon arrival, they uncovered a fully operational casino within.
“Those apprehended were transported to the police precinct to provide statements,” stated Police Commissioner Eduardo Brotero. “The officers will continue their examination of the occurrences, ascertaining those accountable for the function – coordinators, personnel, and the proprietor of the premises – who will face charges related to offenses against public health, gaming, and noncompliance.”
Following interrogation at the police station, Gabigol and the remaining attendees were discharged and are expected to receive a summons.
Gabigol was absent from Flamengo’s 1-0 defeat to Fluminense on Sunday evening due to the event.
Brazil is presently enduring one of the most severe surges of COVID-19 and holds the second-highest fatality count globally, exceeding 270,000 deaths.