Mahadev Betting App Kingpin Saurabh Chandrakar Brought to Raipur
CBI brings Mahadev betting app accused Saurabh Chandrakar to Raipur from Oman. CM Vishnu Deo Sai expects revelations on protection money.
In a major breakthrough for the investigation into one of India's largest illegal gambling networks, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has brought Mahadev betting app kingpin Saurabh Chandrakar to Raipur. After a complex international operation, the accused is expected to be produced before a local court on Wednesday.
From Oman to Raipur: The Journey of an Accused
The road to Chandrakar's return began with an Interpol Red Corner Notice, which led to his detention by the Royal Oman Police. Following formal extradition proceedings, a specialized CBI team was deputed to Oman to escort him back to Indian soil.
Upon his arrival in India, a Delhi court granted the CBI a two-day transit remand, allowing the agency to transport him to Chhattisgarh, where the core of the investigation is centered.
Chief Minister's Reaction: Hunting for the 'Protection Money' Trail
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has hailed the return of the prime accused as a significant victory. Speaking to reporters in Raipur, the Chief Minister emphasized that Chandrakar's presence is crucial for cracking the deeper layers of the syndicate.
"CBI had been making persistent efforts to bring Saurabh Chandrakar back to the country from abroad. Through him, we expect to uncover further details regarding the Mahadev app, including who was receiving 'protection money.' Everything will be revealed," CM Sai stated.
The Scale of the Mahadev Betting Syndicate
The CBI's investigation, initiated at the request of the Chhattisgarh government, paints a picture of a massive, sophisticated operation. The Mahadev Online Book is alleged to be one of the country's largest illegal betting platforms, operating primarily from outside India.
How the Operation Worked:
- Diverse Betting: The platform facilitated illegal wagering on cricket, football, card games, and various other events.
- Network of Panels: The syndicate operated through a vast network of franchised panels and branches across India to enroll users and collect stakes.
- Money Laundering: Proceeds from the betting were allegedly routed through numerous "mule" bank accounts and layered through multiple transactions.
- Hawala Channels: The funds were eventually transferred abroad using hawala channels to hide the money trail.
Legal Battles and Charges
Saurabh Chandrakar is currently facing heat from multiple central agencies. The CBI has already filed chargesheets against him in two separate cases. These charges include:
- Provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
- Charges under the Indian Penal Code related to cheating, forgery, and criminal conspiracy.
- Violations of the Chhattisgarh Gambling (Prohibition) Act.
Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint against him and has already attached several properties, both within India and overseas, as part of its crackdown on the syndicate's financial empire.