Deolane Bezerra supporter denies payment for São Paulo protest

Matheus Telhada, a close friend of influencer Deolane Bezerra, appeared on Band's "Melhor da Tarde" on 23 July to refute rumours that he had been paid to join a protest demanding her release. He said he received neither money nor any other benefit, dismissing jokes about "pão com mortadela". Telhada explained that he attended the demonstration on Avenida Paulista on 21 July out of personal loyalty, noting that he has spent Christmas with Bezerra and her family and trusts her and her sisters.

Deolane Bezerra has been held in preventive detention since May as part of Operation Vérnix, facing accusations of involvement with a criminal organization linked to the PCC and of money laundering. Her defense denies the charges and seeks a less restrictive measure, while the São Paulo Public Prosecutor's Office has opposed the request. The protest attracted supporters who voiced concerns over what they described as an injustice against the influencer.