Three Arrested as Police Uncover Sophisticated Operation Involving 30 Websites and 60,000 Users
Rajasthan Police have dismantled a sprawling online betting network worth over ₹150 crore (approx. $18 million). The syndicate, which was modelled after the notorious Mahadev Satta platform, operated 30 fake websites and engaged over 60,000 agents and punters across India.
The breakthrough came after a cyber cell operation led by the Udyog Nagar Police Station in Alwar, acting on an intelligence tip-off. Police arrested three individuals, including a software engineer believed to be central to the operation’s technological backbone.
From Tech to Laundering: A Full-Service Betting Syndicate
According to Alwar Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Nain, the suspects developed and ran websites and mobile applications that mimicked legitimate betting platforms. These digital fronts offered bets on IPL cricket matches, online casino games, and traditional forms like matka—a popular regional gambling game.
The group allegedly facilitated payouts through digital wallets and hawala transactions, a common underground money transfer system. The proceeds were then invested in real estate and luxury goods across multiple cities to conceal the source of funds.
Police also uncovered a complex distribution model where agents managed regional player networks, receiving commissions on player losses and activities. This approach allowed the group to scale rapidly while staying under the radar.
Devices Seized and More Arrests Expected
During the raids, authorities seized two laptops, six Android phones, a hard drive, 15 ATM cards, and an SUV. These items reportedly contain crucial data linking the operation to a wider national network.
The three arrested individuals have been identified as:
Nitin Paliwal, resident of Scheme No. 10B, Alwar
Mahesh Sharma, from Apnaghar Shalimar
Piyush Sharma, based in Shivaji Park, Mathura
Paliwal was intercepted while returning from Agra, and evidence recovered from his devices helped investigators map the scale of the operation.
Organised Crime Charges and Asset Seizure Possible
The suspects are currently remanded in police custody for four days, with more arrests expected in the coming days. Police are exploring charges under organised crime provisions of the Indian Penal Code, which would allow authorities to seize properties and freeze bank accounts tied to the network.
This bust comes amid rising concerns about tech-enabled gambling fraud in India, especially during major sporting events like the IPL. Authorities are calling for stricter cyber surveillance and legal reform to better address the surge in online gambling operations across the country.
