ED Detains Two Suspects in Cricket Betting Investigation

Synopsis

The ED has arrested Chirag and Chintan Shah in connection with an investigation into illegal betting and broadcasting activities related to the Fairplay platform. The suspects remain in custody as the probe unfolds, revealing significant financial losses and potential legal violations.

Key Takeaways

Chirag and Chintan Shah arrested by ED.
Investigation linked to Fairplay platform.
Allegations of illegal broadcasting and betting.
Assets worth Rs 344.15 crore attached.
Custody granted until February 15, 2025.

Mumbai, Feb 14 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Mumbai Zonal Office, has apprehended Chirag Shah and Chintan Shah as part of an ongoing probe into the illicit broadcasting and online betting operations of the Fairplay platform.

The arrests were executed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. Both suspects were brought before the Special Court (PMLA), Mumbai, which granted the ED custody until February 15, 2025.

The investigation commenced after an FIR was lodged by M/s. Viacom18 Media Pvt. Limited with the Nodal Cyber Police in Mumbai.

The FIR alleged that Fairplay and its affiliates were involved in the unauthorized broadcasting of cricket and IPL matches, in addition to their role in online betting.

These operations have resulted in a staggering revenue loss exceeding Rs 100 crore. The case involves violations of various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Copyright Act, 1957.

ED’s investigation uncovered that Chirag Shah and Chintan Shah were instrumental in the operations of the Fairplay platform, offering vital technical services and operational assistance through their companies, M/s. Wohlig Transformations Private Limited, India, and M/s. Wohlig Transformation FZE LLC, Dubai.

Previously, the ED conducted several search operations in June, August, September, and October of 2024, leading to the confiscation and freezing of numerous movable assets, incriminating documents, and digital devices.

Provisional Attachment Orders were issued by the ED on November 22, 2024, December 26, 2024, and January 15, 2025. To date, the total value of the attached and seized assets is approximately Rs 344.15 crore.

The investigation is ongoing as the ED aims to reveal the full scale of the illicit activities. Reports indicate that the agency has confiscated various critical materials from these two individuals, which are expected to serve as crucial evidence.