Major Gambling Bust in Chikkaballapura: 19 Arrested, Over ₹9 Lakh Seized
In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, the Pathapalya police in Chikkaballapura district conducted a targeted raid on Friday evening, resulting in the arrest of 19 individuals and the seizure of more than ₹9 lakh in stake money. The operation took place at Tholapalli village, where authorities dismantled an illicit gambling setup that had attracted participants from neighbouring states.
Coordinated Police Action Leads to Successful Raid
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a dedicated police team led by Circle Inspector M Srinivas and PSI Ganesh from the Chelur police station swiftly moved into action. They raided the tank bund area in Tholapalli, where approximately 21 people were found actively engaged in various gambling games. Among these was the explicitly banned card game 'Andhar Bahar', which has been a persistent concern for law enforcement due to its widespread illegal operation.
Upon the arrival of the police, two individuals managed to flee the scene, leaving behind their personal belongings in a hurried attempt to evade capture. The remaining suspects were detained following a thorough mahazar (spot inspection and seizure procedure). In addition to the substantial cash haul, officers confiscated 15 mobile phones and two two-wheelers from the location, further disrupting the operational capabilities of the gambling ring.
Cross-Border Involvement and Festival Season Crackdown
Investigations revealed that several of the accused had travelled from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh specifically to participate in the illegal gambling activities. This cross-border element highlights the organised nature of such operations and the challenges faced by local authorities in curbing them.
This recent raid is part of a broader, intensified effort by the Chikkaballapura police to combat illegal gambling, particularly during the festive season. Just days prior, during the Ugadi festival period, police registered an impressive 82 cases and arrested approximately 475 individuals in connection with gambling offences over a span of two days. In those operations, nearly ₹6 lakh in stake money was recovered, demonstrating the scale of illegal gambling in the region.
Authorities Vow Continued Strict Action
Superintendent of Police Kushal Chouskey emphasised that the department had implemented special arrangements to curb illegal activities throughout the festival season. He issued a stern warning, stating that strict action would persist against all offenders, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining law and order.
The successful raid in Tholapalli village not only disrupts a specific illegal operation but also sends a clear message about the zero-tolerance policy towards gambling-related crimes in Chikkaballapura. With ongoing vigilance and coordinated efforts, authorities aim to significantly reduce such activities and protect community welfare.
