Mica Galvão, a decorated jiu-jitsu competitor, has broken his silence following the arrest of his father, Melqui Galvão, on suspicion of sexual abuse. In a video statement posted to his social media accounts, the athlete addressed the serious allegations, offering his support to the victims and reaffirming his faith in the legal process.
The champion fighter explained his recent absence from public life, stating he stepped back from social media to be with his family during this difficult period. He apologized to his followers for the lack of communication, emphasizing the need to prioritize his family's well-being.
Galvão detailed the significant fallout for the family's jiu-jitsu team, which he described as having effectively shut down due to the case's repercussions. He took on the responsibility of trying to keep the project afloat for the sake of the athletes and families who depended on it for training. However, he confirmed that continuing with the sports project is currently impossible given the circumstances.
Directly addressing the allegations, Galvão extended his solidarity to the victims. He publicly offered his personal support, stating he would make himself available to help them within his capabilities. He also expressed his confidence that the truth would emerge through the proper judicial channels.
This marks the second time Galvão has spoken publicly since his father's arrest. In his initial statement, he described the situation as profoundly difficult, acknowledging his father's role in introducing him to the sport and teaching him core values. He also unequivocally repudiated any form of harassment or violence against women and children.
Melqui Galvão, a well-known jiu-jitsu instructor and civil police officer in Amazonas, was taken into custody following an investigation by the São Paulo Police Civil. The probe was initiated after a 17-year-old former student reported non-consensual acts during an international competition. Authorities state that at least three victims have come forward, with allegations spanning multiple states and involving incidents when one victim was as young as 12 years old.
The investigation includes a recording in which the suspect allegedly admits to the events indirectly and attempts to prevent the case from proceeding with offers of financial compensation. Temporary arrest warrants and search warrants were executed in connection with the case. The suspect has been suspended from his police duties pending the outcome of the investigation.
Based on reporting from g1.