The case involving Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach Melqui Galvão continues to unfold rapidly, with new details emerging that have intensified scrutiny across the global BJJ community.
According to multiple reports, Galvão was taken into custody in Manaus following allegations made by three female students. As the investigation progressed, authorities identified additional alleged victims, including one who was reportedly just 12 years old at the time of the alleged incidents.
The case originated in São Paulo, where a 17-year-old athlete first came forward. Authorities from the 8th Women’s Defense Police Station launched an investigation after the alleged misconduct was reported. According to delegate Mariene Andrade, the incident described by the initial complainant allegedly took place while she was traveling abroad for a jiu-jitsu competition in Italy.
Investigators have also stated that Galvão allegedly attempted to access evidence by entering the young woman’s phone without authorization. Following the report to her parents, he is said to have taken steps to discourage them from pursuing the matter further.
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One of the most controversial developments in the case is the emergence of a leaked audio recording, widely circulated online and attributed to Galvão. While the authenticity of the recording has not been officially confirmed by authorities, its contents have drawn significant attention.
In the recording, the speaker expresses regret and acknowledges wrongdoing, stating that his behavior was unjustifiable and that he failed in his responsibility as a coach and mentor.
Alleged Audio of Melqui Galvão Speaking to Victim’s Family Reveals Apology and Alleged Bribe Attempt
“I am deeply sorry… nothing justifies my behavior. As a leader and as an older man, I should never have acted this way,” the speaker says in the audio.
However, beyond the apology, the recording appears to show attempts to resolve the situation privately with the victim’s family. The speaker allegedly offers to cover expenses, including travel costs, and proposes that the athlete remain in training until receiving her black belt.
He also references potential opportunities abroad, including involvement in a jiu-jitsu academy project in the United States, presenting it as a way to improve the family’s future.
At several points, the speaker highlights the potential consequences of a formal complaint, stating that many people depend on his academy and that public exposure could damage not only his reputation but an entire structure supporting coaches, staff, and athletes.
“If my name falls, the entire project falls… many people depend on this,” the speaker says.
He repeatedly emphasizes that he is willing to accept whatever decision the family makes, stating that he is “in their hands,” while also asking for the opportunity to resolve the matter without escalation.
The speaker also denies more serious allegations, claiming that any physical contact was limited and that he had no intention of going further.
Authorities have since confirmed that a temporary arrest was granted as part of the investigation. In an official statement, the São Paulo Public Security Secretariat explained:
“Given the facts, the delegate requested the temporary arrest of the suspect, which was granted by the Court. Search and seizure warrants were also granted… On Monday night (27), the man surrendered to the Civil Police of Amazonas.”
Search and seizure operations were carried out in São Paulo, while the suspect was later located in Manaus, where he had professional ties as a personal defense instructor within the Amazonas Civil Police.
The Amazonas Civil Police also issued a statement confirming internal action:
“The Amazonas Civil Police has taken precautionary measures to remove the officer from his duties, as legally permitted, until the investigations are concluded.”
Authorities further indicated that an internal administrative proceeding has been opened to examine his conduct and determine any additional consequences.
The São Paulo Court of Justice has stated that the case is currently under judicial confidentiality, and forensic analysis of seized devices is still pending.
As the investigation continues, the case has sparked widespread debate within the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community, raising broader concerns about accountability, power dynamics between coaches and students, and the responsibility of instructors in positions of authority.
At this stage, the case remains ongoing, and no final judgment has been issued. As with all legal proceedings, the principle of due process applies, and all parties are entitled to a full and fair hearing.
Further developments are expected as authorities continue their investigation.
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