Odisha: Police in Odisha’s Sundargarh district have uncovered a major illegal betting network linked to the Indian Premier League (IPL). The operation was carried out in the Rajgangpur area, where the entire betting racket was being operated. Police have arrested five individuals and seized a large amount of cash and assets related to digital transactions.
According to reports, the operation was based on a tip-off. Upon receiving the information, the Sundargarh Superintendent of Police (SP) immediately directed the Rajgangpur police team to investigate and take action. Following this, a special police team was formed, which raided the designated location on Sunday.
During the raid, police arrested five individuals who were allegedly involved in illegal betting activities on IPL matches. The arrested accused have been identified as Ranjan Kumar Sa, Rahul Sahu, Sanjay Kumar Mistry, Umesh Seth, and Niranjan Sahu.
Police investigations have revealed that this network operated both online and offline betting during IPL matches. The accused accepted bets through various channels, and money transactions were conducted through mobile phones and bank accounts.
During the operation, police recovered approximately ₹6 lakh in cash from the accused. Five mobile phones were also seized, which were allegedly used for betting transactions and communication.
Further investigations by the police also examined bank accounts linked to the accused and froze approximately ₹17.61 lakh. This amount is believed to have been generated through illegal betting.
According to officials, this racket was not limited to the local area and may have connections to other areas. Police are now investigating who else was involved in this racket and how it was operated.
Rajgangpur police have detained all the accused and initiated further legal proceedings. Additionally, their digital devices and banking records are being thoroughly examined to uncover the entire network.
Police officials stated that such illegal betting activities see an increase during the IPL season, and a continuous campaign is being launched against them. Further arrests are possible in this case.
Following this action, vigilance has been heightened regarding illegal betting networks in the area, and police are also monitoring other suspicious activities.
