Jogo do Bicho (Animal Game)

Results of the "Animal Game" in Rio de Janeiro, May 28, 2007. The Animal Game (Jogo do Bicho) is an illegal lottery game played all over Brazil, but mostly in Rio de Janeiro. Started by a businessman to promote a zoo in the 1800s, customers can bet any amount on numbers which correspond to 25 animals. There are three daily drawings, and winners can collect their earnings at the spot they made the bet, which is usually a person sitting at a corner or local bar with a desk and notepad. Despite its widespread popularity, it is still illegal and those involved may be prosecuted. (Australfoto/Douglas Engle)

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Results of the "Animal Game" in Rio de Janeiro, May 28, 2007. The Animal Game (Jogo do Bicho) is an illegal lottery game played all over Brazil, but mostly in Rio de Janeiro. Started by a businessman to promote a zoo in the 1800s, customers can bet any amount on numbers which correspond to 25 animals. There are three daily drawings, and winners can collect their earnings at the spot they made the bet, which is usually a person sitting at a corner or local bar with a desk and notepad. Despite its widespread popularity, it is still illegal and those involved may be prosecuted. (Australfoto/Douglas Engle)

Rio Brazil corruption bicho lottery game