Brazilian Education Officials Investigated for Alleged Diversion of School Funds to Online Betting

The probe focuses on claims that resources intended for public schools were diverted to digital betting platforms commonly known in Brazil as “Jogo do Tigrinho.”

The investigation is being carried out by Seduc’s internal affairs unit and currently includes 15 administrative proceedings. Officials say the first indications of irregularities surfaced around two years ago and involve employees working in managerial and financial positions across several schools in the state.

“Jogo do Tigrinho” is a popular nickname for a slot-style online game featuring a tiger theme. The game has become widely associated with unlicensed gambling platforms and illegal betting operations in Brazil, often operating outside the country’s regulated framework.

While authorities have not disclosed the total amount of public money allegedly diverted, Seduc confirmed that the misused funds were reimbursed in order to avoid disruptions to school activities and services. In one of the cases under investigation, an administrative assistant admitted to diverting approximately BRL 90,000 (about USD 17,300) over a three-month period. According to a police statement, the employee claimed the money was used for online betting in an attempt to recover losses and later return the funds to the school’s account—an effort that ultimately failed.

All individuals identified in connection with the alleged misconduct have been removed from their positions pending the outcome of the investigation. The cases are currently proceeding under judicial secrecy, limiting the amount of information that can be made public.

The situation has drawn responses from industry organizations representing Brazil’s regulated gambling sector. The National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) and the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) emphasized the importance of licensed platforms and responsible gambling measures. Both groups highlighted that authorized operators provide tools such as self-assessment tests and self-exclusion options designed to support individuals at risk of problem gambling.

Industry representatives also warned that unregulated websites pose the greatest risk to consumers, particularly those operating outside Brazil’s official .bet.br domain. Authorities continue to investigate the scope of the alleged fund misuse as the case develops.