Brazilian Cannabis Influencer Melissa Said Arrested in Major Drug Trafficking Operation

Melissa Said has amassed over 340,000 followers on Instagram.

Authorities have arrested 23-year-old Brazilian social media personality Melissa Said following a police investigation that identified her as the alleged leader of a significant drug trafficking and money laundering operation spanning between Bahia and Sao Paulo.

The influencer, who boasts more than 351,000 Instagram followers, was apprehended while sheltering at a friend's residence in Bahia. Her capture came after extensive surveillance efforts by the Bahia Civil Police, who had previously searched five properties connected to her as part of "Operation Erva Afetiva" - named after a phrase reportedly appearing in her social media biography meaning "weed-loving."

Investigations into Said reportedly began in 2024 when she was allegedly discovered with illegal substances at an airport. Law enforcement officials claim she instructed her followers on methods to avoid police detection while transporting drugs and promoted her personal brand through the distribution of cannabis joint "kits."

During the enforcement operation, police detained three additional suspects and confiscated 1.4 kilograms of high-potency marijuana (locally referred to as 'skank'), 270 grams of hashish, various cannabis products, weighing equipment, packaging supplies, mobile devices, banking cards, and two vehicles believed to be associated with the criminal enterprise.

Law enforcement has not yet revealed the identity of the third individual taken into custody. Said, known for advocating cannabis legalization, initially avoided capture during the initial raids and was classified as a fugitive until her Thursday arrest.

Ernandes Junior, director of the State Department for Prevention and Suppression of Drug Trafficking, stated: "The objective of this operation is to combat drug trafficking, with the main target being a digital influencer who promotes crime."

"It was discovered that in addition to promoting crime and drug use, she also sells and distributes narcotics in Bahia, with some people from Sao Paulo as one of her suppliers."