Since its criminalization in 1941, Jogo do Bicho has developed a problematic relationship with Brazilian politics. Despite its illegality, it has remained widely tolerated, largely due to the economic power and social influence of its “banqueiros” (bankers). Check out Part 1 here to learn about its origins. 

Complicity and political alliances 

Over the decades, many game bankers established trusted relationships with politicians and public officials. There have been multiple allegations that political campaigns were financed with funds from the game, creating a network of mutual interests. 

These connections were particularly strong in cities like Rio de Janeiro, where Jogo do Bicho became a parallel institution. Bankers often provided financial support for electoral campaigns in exchange for protection or favorable regulations that limited crackdowns on their activities. 

The relationship between Jogo do Bicho and politics came to light through various scandals. One of the most notable occurred in the 1990s with the CPI do Jogo do Bicho (Parliamentary Inquiry Commission on Jogo do Bicho). This investigation uncovered widespread corruption involving politicians, police officers, and bankers. 

Findings revealed that many public agents accepted bribes to turn a blind eye to the game’s operations or even to protect bankers from rivals. Despite the widespread attention these allegations garnered, the practice continued as usual. Beyond the CPI, other police operations highlighted Jogo do Bicho’s impact on corruption and public security. 

Operation Hurricane (2007) 

Operation Hurricane (Operação Furacão) marked a high point in investigations into the ties between Jogo do Bicho and organized crime. Led by the Federal Police, the operation resulted in the arrests of Jogo do Bicho bankers, judges, senior judicial officials, and police officers, exposing a vast corruption network spanning all three branches of government. 

The case offered a clear example of how Jogo do Bicho had infiltrated official institutions, using its influence to ensure impunity. 

Jogo do Bicho and organized crime 

Although not all game bankers are linked to organized crime, some investigations have revealed connections between the game and criminal factions. In certain instances, revenues from the game were used to fund other illegal activities, such as drug or arms trafficking. 

Beyond corruption and clandestine alliances, Jogo do Bicho has played a significant role in local communities. Many bankers used part of their profits to sponsor events and community projects, such as samba schools, religious festivals, and infrastructure improvements in underprivileged neighborhoods. This helped shape their image as community benefactors, despite the illegality of their activities. 

In some regions, Jogo do Bicho bankers acted as “political brokers,” mobilizing communities to support specific candidates. In return, they ensured their operations could continue without interference. 

The close ties between bankers and politicians often led the state to turn a blind eye to Jogo do Bicho, even while officially classifying it as illegal. It evolved from a simple lottery into a force that significantly influenced Brazilian politics and economics. While it has supported cultural and community initiatives, it has also been implicated in corruption schemes that undermined public trust in institutions. 

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