Brazilian Authorities Seize 700 Birds from Ronaldo's Brother-in-Law's Facility

Brazilian authorities seized 700 birds from a breeding facility owned by Alexandre Bertoluci Júnior, brother-in-law of soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, and the animals will be euthanized. The operation was conducted by state agriculture officials and environmental police in Gramado. The birds lacked proper origin documentation, violating a 2024 federal regulation prohibiting the gathering of unregistered poultry due to avian influenza concerns. Bertoluci's defense expressed "deep sadness and nonconformity" with the operation, stating the birds were healthy and well-cared for, and pledged to pursue legal action. The seizure follows a July police operation that found approximately 1,500 birds across properties in Gramado and Igrejinha, linked to suspected cockfighting rings. Authorities allege some birds were sold for up to R$30,000, though Bertoluci's defense previously denied any criminal activity.