Pele's son held in money laundering case

SAO PAULO: The 44-year-old son of soccer legend Pele has been arrested in Brazil after losing an appeal in a money laundering case involving a drug gang.

Edson Cholbi do Nascimento, known as Edinho, was convicted earlier this year and sentenced to 33 years in prison for laundering money for the gang.

The former goalkeeper had been allowed to remain free during the process, but a judge on Tuesday said his appeal was rejected.

Edinho can appeal again to a higher court, but judge Suzana Pereira said in her ruling that this time he must remain in jail.

Edinho's lawyers told Brazilian media that they will request Edinho's immediate release.

Pele's press office said the former player will not immediately comment on his son's arrest.