The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has conducted searches at 33 locations across six states in connection with its investigation into the illegal online betting platform Mahadev Online Book.
The searches were carried out over the past few days at premises linked to the platform's panel operators. According to the CBI, the operation was based on disclosures made by Sourabh Chandrakar, one of the principal promoters of the platform, following his extradition from Oman.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
CBI conducted searches at 33 locations across six states.
Premises linked to Mahadev Online Book panel operators were searched.
Live betting and gambling panels were found and dismantled.
Digital devices, mobile phones and incriminating documents were seized.
Investigators found indications of mule bank accounts and hawala networks.
The searches followed disclosures made by Sourabh Chandrakar after his extradition from Oman.
During the searches, investigators found live betting and gambling panels operating at several locations and dismantled them. The agency also recovered and seized digital devices, mobile phones and incriminating documents indicating the use of mule bank accounts and hawala networks.
Chandrakar was extradited from Oman and arrested by the CBI on November 1, 2026. During his interrogation, he provided information about the platform's functioning and its network of panel operators in India. The agency also confronted him with documentary and digital evidence collected during the investigation.
The CBI has registered two FIRs in the Mahadev Online Book case after the investigation was transferred from the Chhattisgarh government to the central agency.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The searches highlight the scale of the alleged illegal betting network and the financial channels being examined by investigators. The investigation is focused on identifying those operating the betting panels and tracing the movement of money through suspected mule accounts and hawala networks.
According to the CBI, the platform operates from abroad through a head office, while its activities in India are managed through an extensive network of panel operators. These operators allegedly handle customer IDs, collect betting money through bank accounts opened or hired in other people's names and transfer the proceeds abroad through hawala channels.
The investigation is continuing into the roles of other accused, including individuals based abroad, alleged facilitators and public servants whose involvement is under examination. The agency is also pursuing steps to secure the extradition of other absconding accused.
The CBI has cautioned the public against participating in illegal online betting and gambling activities. It has also warned that providing bank accounts, SIM cards or identity documents to facilitate such operations can expose individuals to criminal prosecution.
