CBI searches 33 locations in Mahadev betting app case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has carried out searches at 33 locations spread across six states as part of the investigation into the Mahadev Online Book illegal betting app case. The operation dismantled live betting and gambling panels and resulted in the seizure of digital devices, mobile phones, and incriminating documents.

The searches followed disclosures made by Sourabh Chandrakar, a key promoter of the platform, after his extradition from Oman. On November 1, the CBI arrested Chandrakar and granted him eight days of police custody for interrogation at a special court in Raipur. During questioning, Chandrakar reportedly divulged details about the platform's operations and its network of panel operators in India. He was also presented with evidence gathered during the investigation.

The CBI registered two FIRs in connection with the Mahadev Online Book case following the conclusion of the investigations, which had been transferred from the Chhattisgarh government. The investigation has revealed that the platform operates from abroad through a head office, while its Indian activities are managed by a large network of panel operators.

These operators are alleged to manage customer IDs, collect betting money through bank accounts opened or hired in the names of others, and transfer profits abroad via hawala channels.

After his release from police custody, Chandrakar appeared before the special CBI court in Raipur on November 12 and was remanded to judicial custody until November 19. The CBI stated that its investigation continues into the roles of other accused individuals, including those based abroad, and those who facilitated the operations.

Authorities are also seeking to extradite other absconding accused. The CBI has warned the public against engaging in online betting and gambling, emphasizing that lending or renting of bank accounts, SIM cards, or identity documents to facilitate such activities constitutes a criminal offense and may lead to prosecution.