Brazil Police Investigate Alleged Drug and Arms Links Involving Football Players

São Paulo, Brazil — Brazilian authorities are investigating a suspected criminal network allegedly involved in drug and arms trafficking after police searched the home of Vasco da Gama footballer David Corrêa, also known as “DVD.”

The operation was carried out on Monday by police in Espírito Santo, where Corrêa was born. Investigators are examining possible connections between the footballer and a criminal organization allegedly involved in trafficking weapons and illegal drugs.

Corrêa, 30, is one of Vasco da Gama’s regular players and has appeared in 21 Brazilian league matches this season. He scored his latest goal during Vasco’s 3–1 victory over Cruzeiro on August 29.

Police searched Corrêa’s residence in Rio de Janeiro and also carried out a search at Vasco da Gama’s training facility. Investigators reportedly seized electronic devices and documents as part of the operation.

The investigation, known as “Operation The Troop,” is focused on identifying the structure and activities of the suspected criminal organization. Authorities said the name came from terminology allegedly used by people under investigation for the group.

Another professional footballer, Hayner Cordeiro, who currently plays for second-division club Vila Nova and previously represented Santos, is also being investigated in connection with the case.

Corrêa left Vasco’s training center after the police action but did not make a public statement about the investigation. Vasco da Gama said it is cooperating with authorities conducting the inquiry.

Police have not announced that Corrêa has been convicted of any crime. The searches are part of an ongoing investigation intended to gather evidence and determine whether those under investigation have any links to the suspected criminal organization.

Authorities are continuing to examine documents, electronic devices and other evidence obtained during the operation. Investigators are expected to determine the alleged roles of the individuals involved as the inquiry progresses.

The case has attracted considerable attention in Brazil because of the involvement of professional footballers and the serious nature of the allegations surrounding the suspected trafficking network.

All individuals under investigation are presumed innocent unless proven guilty through the Brazilian judicial process.