Vasco da Gama player David Corrêa targeted in drug trafficking probe

Vasco da Gama striker David Corrêa, known as DVD, is the target of a major police investigation involving interstate drug and arms trafficking. The investigation, dubbed ‘Operation A Tropa’, follows a failed homicide attempt in March 2024 in the state of Espírito Santo.

Authorities have identified Corrêa’s former agent, Édson Vander da Silva Júnior, as a leader of a drug trafficking group in the Serra Dourada 3 neighborhood. Investigations revealed that while managing the player's career and finances, da Silva Júnior was also heading local criminal activities. Police seized mobile phones containing direct messages between the agent and the player, which investigators are treating as evidence of potential financing of drug trafficking by the athlete.

Law enforcement executed search and seizure warrants at Corrêa’s residence and the Vasco da Gama training center in Jacarepaguá. The operation involved approximately 100 agents across multiple states. Vasco da Gama director Admar Lopes stated that the club will cooperate with authorities but noted that the player will continue his professional duties for the time being. The case has drawn significant international media attention from outlets in France, the United States, Argentina, and Colombia.