Who Is Melissa Said? All about Brazilian influencer as she denies involvement in drug network

Brazilian social media influencer Melissa Said, 23, was arrested in Salvador, Bahia, during a large-scale police operation targeting a suspected drug trafficking network. Known online for her bold lifestyle and cannabis-themed content, Melissa has over 376,000 Instagram followers and has now become the focus of a nationwide controversy.

Who Is Melissa Said?

Melissa Said rose to fame on Instagram by posting bikini photos, luxury lifestyle videos, and pro-cannabis content. Her openness about marijuana use attracted a large following — but it also drew the attention of authorities.

Her handle, @ErvaAfetiva (meaning “Affective Herb”), became symbolic of her brand. She often shared posts promoting recreational cannabis, showing herself smoking marijuana and encouraging open conversations about the plant’s legalization in Brazil.

The Arrest and Police Operation “Erva Afetiva”

The Civil Police of Bahia conducted an operation called “Erva Afetiva”, inspired by Melissa’s online persona. Raids were carried out on five properties connected to her, resulting in the seizure of:

• Around three pounds of skunk cannabis

• Half a pound of hashish

• Small amounts of marijuana

• Digital scales and packaging materials

• Cell phones, bank cards, and two vehicles allegedly linked to drug distribution

Melissa was found hiding at a friend’s house and arrested along with at least four other suspects.

Melissa Said Denies All Allegations

After her arrest, Melissa released a statement rejecting the accusations: “No one in the world should be arrested for smoking marijuana.”

She insisted that her posts only aim to promote cannabis culture and not drug trafficking. Melissa described her arrest as “a disgrace”, saying she was being targeted for her advocacy of marijuana legalization rather than any criminal conduct.

Social Media Influence and Controversy

Melissa’s content often blurred the line between influencer marketing and illegal promotion. Authorities claim she:

• Taught followers how to evade police checks

• Sold marijuana “street kits” and accessories

• Used social media to connect with potential buyers

Her Instagram bio even stated: “I talk about ganja.”
The police say this digital trail was key to building their case against her.

The 2024 Investigation

The probe into Melissa’s activities reportedly began in 2024, after she was caught with drugs at an airport. Since then, her financial records, online interactions, and travel history have been under surveillance.

Forensic experts examined her phones and social media activity, allegedly finding evidence of transactions and communications tied to a drug distribution ring operating between Bahia and São Paulo.

Possible Sentence and Public Debate

If convicted, Melissa Said could face up to 25 years in prison. Her case has sparked national debate about digital influence and responsibility, with many questioning whether promoting marijuana online should be treated as criminal behavior or a freedom of expression issue.