What Major Online Betting Racket Did Kota Police Uncover?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kota Police successfully dismantled a major online betting racket.
- Six individuals were arrested, including key operatives.
- Online betting operations were linked to the Mahadev Satta network.
- Authorities seized evidence worth nearly Rs 18 crore.
- The case highlights the challenges of illegal gambling in India.
Jaipur, Aug 8 (NationPress) In a significant operation, the Kota Police in Rajasthan have successfully dismantled a large online betting racket associated with the Mahadev Satta network, resulting in the arrest of six individuals engaged in illicit betting activities valued at crores of rupees.
The criminal organization exploited various fraudulent websites and gaming platforms, including the notorious Mahadev Satta app. Authorities have confiscated accounts that reveal transactions totaling nearly Rs 18 crore.
Kota City Superintendent of Police Tejaswani Gautam reported that on Thursday, August 7, the Anantpura Police Station received a crucial tip-off regarding online betting operations originating from a residential flat. Responding promptly, a specialized team was formed and executed a raid.
During the operation, law enforcement apprehended Harshit Prajapati, Nikhil Suwalka, Akash Mewada, Hitesh Prajapati, Omprakash Gurjar, and Suresh Dewasi.
The suspects allegedly took bets on major sports, including cricket and football, through fake platforms such as Chinku Book, fineexch.com, and chinku247.com.
They attracted victims through social media channels, encouraging them to deposit funds via UPI. In cases of significant wins, they often delayed or denied payments, misappropriating the funds.
From the scene, police recovered two laptops, thirty-three mobile phones, thirty-four debit cards, ten SIM cards, and other incriminating evidence. The case is being handled under the provisions of 'organized crime' specified in the recently enacted criminal statutes.
The six detainees are currently in police custody for five days as authorities continue to investigate and identify the mastermind behind the operation and the server providers involved.
The operation was carried out by a specialized police unit led by Station House Officer Bhupendra Singh, with guidance from Assistant Superintendent of Police Dilip Saini and Deputy Superintendent of Police Manish Sharma. The team included Sub Inspector Rohit Kumar and Constables Budha Ram, Farsaram, Rajendra, Pushpendra, Rakesh, Ashok, and Narpat. Their rapid and coordinated efforts effectively dismantled this high-stakes online betting operation.
Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing, with further developments expected as the interrogation of the arrested suspects continues.