What Actions is the ED Taking Against Illegal Betting?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on illegal betting, the ED has seized Dubai properties worth Rs 307 crore linked to the Fairplay platform. This case reveals the deep-rooted connections between online betting and unlawful broadcasting. Discover how this investigation unfolds and its impact on the betting landscape in India.
Key Takeaways
- ED's seizure of Rs 307.16 crore in Dubai highlights the ongoing battle against illegal betting.
- The investigation is tied to illegal broadcasting and online betting activities.
- Chirag Shah and Chintan Shah play key roles in the Fairplay platform.
- The total seized assets now amount to Rs 651.31 crore.
- Significant financial losses exceeding Rs 100 crore have been reported.
Mumbai, Sep 22 (NationPress) In an effort to investigate illegal betting activities associated with the Fairplay platform, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has confiscated Dubai-based properties and movable assets valued at Rs 307.16 crore, as confirmed by an official on Monday.
This recent action by the ED's Mumbai zonal office on Friday has escalated the cumulative value of attachments and seizures in this case to Rs 651.31 crore.
The assets seized in this operation comprise bank balances and real estate, including villas and flats situated in Dubai (UAE). This measure was enacted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, as part of the ongoing inquiry into the Fairplay platform's alleged involvement in illegal broadcasting and online betting activities, according to the official's statement.
In February, the ED apprehended Chirag Shah and Chintan Shah in connection with the investigation surrounding the unlawful broadcasting and online betting linked to the Fairplay platform.
The inquiry commenced following an FIR lodged on the complaint of a media company with the Nodal Cyber Police, Mumbai.
The FIR accuses Fairplay and its associated entities of unlawfully broadcasting cricket and IPL matches, alongside engaging in online betting.
The operations have resulted in a financial loss exceeding Rs 100 crore. The case encompasses violations under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Copyright Act, 1957.
The ED's investigation has uncovered that Chirag Shah and Chintan Shah were pivotal in managing the Fairplay platform by supplying crucial technical services and operational support through their enterprises, Wohlig Transformations Private Limited in India and Wohlig Transformation FZE LLC in Dubai.
Last year, the ED executed multiple search operations in June, August, September, and October, resulting in the seizure and freezing of various movable assets, incriminating documents, and digital devices.
The ED targeted several locations in Maharashtra regarding betting activities during IPL matches and the Lok Sabha elections, confiscating assets valued over Rs 8 crore.
During raids at 19 locations in Mumbai and Pune, the ED focused on the Fairplay betting website, which was engaged in online betting concerning Lok Sabha election results and the illegal broadcasting of IPL matches.
Provisional Attachment Orders were issued by the ED on November 22, 2024, December 26, 2024, and January 15, 2025.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the ongoing issues regarding illegal betting that not only undermine the integrity of sports but also pose significant challenges to law enforcement. The ED's actions demonstrate a commitment to curbing these unlawful activities and protecting the interests of both the public and legitimate businesses in India. As we follow this story, we must remain vigilant about the broader implications for our economy and society.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED's investigation into Fairplay?
The investigation was initiated following an FIR filed by a media company with the Nodal Cyber Police in Mumbai, accusing Fairplay of illegal broadcasting and online betting.
What assets have been seized by the ED?
The ED has seized properties and movable assets including bank balances, lands, and villas located in Dubai, valued at Rs 307.16 crore.
What is the total value of assets seized in this case so far?
The total value of attachments and seizures in this case has reached Rs 651.31 crore.
Who were arrested in connection with the case?
Chirag Shah and Chintan Shah were arrested by the ED in February as part of the investigation into illegal betting activities.
What laws are being violated in this case?
The case involves violations under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Copyright Act, 1957.
