In a significant crackdown on illegal sports gambling, the Delhi Police Special Cell has successfully dismantled a cricket betting syndicate operating in the national capital. The operation led to the arrest of two individuals and the confiscation of cash and electronic devices used for facilitating bets.
Police Sting Operation in Rohini
The police action unfolded on the evening of Saturday, May 11, following the receipt of specific intelligence. A dedicated team from the Special Cell conducted a raid at a premises located in the Rohini area's Sector 24. It was here that the two accused were found actively managing a betting operation focused on cricket matches.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Vikas, 34, and Joginder, 42. Both are residents of Delhi. Upon searching the location, the police team made crucial recoveries that substantiated the illegal activity.
Cash and Gadgets Seized as Evidence
The authorities seized a total of ₹1.5 lakh in cash, which is believed to be the money involved in settling betting transactions. Furthermore, the police confiscated two mobile phones that were being used as instruments for the racket. These devices were essential for communicating with bookmakers and accepting bets from clients.
Investigations revealed that the duo was primarily accepting wagers on matches from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. However, their illicit business was not limited to the T20 tournament. They were also involved in betting on other international and domestic cricket fixtures, making it a round-the-year illegal enterprise.
Modus Operandi of the Betting Ring
The accused operated using a classic bookmaking model. They would set odds for various in-play events within a cricket match, such as the score in a particular over, the number of boundaries, or the outcome of the game. Bettors would place their money on these outcomes through phone calls or messages.
The seized mobile phones contained records of conversations with multiple bettors and higher-level bookies, which are now being analyzed by the police. This data is expected to help uncover a larger network and possibly lead to more arrests in the future.
A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Delhi Public Gambling Act. Both Vikas and Joginder were presented before a local court, which has remanded them to police custody for further interrogation. The police are now delving deeper into the financial trail and connections of the racket to map its full extent.
Ongoing Crackdown on Illegal Betting
This bust is part of a continued drive by the Delhi Police against illegal betting syndicates, especially those that become hyper-active during popular sporting events like the IPL. The police have reiterated their commitment to curbing such activities that not only violate the law but also have the potential to lure youth into financial ruin and connect with organized crime.
The Special Cell has urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to sports betting. They have also warned citizens that engaging in or facilitating such gambling operations is a punishable offense. With the IPL season reaching its climax, such police actions are expected to intensify across the city.
