Four Individuals Arrested for Online Betting During T20 World Cup Match in Ahmedabad
In a significant crackdown on illegal gambling activities, the Chandkheda police in Ahmedabad arrested four persons on Wednesday for allegedly participating in online betting during the high-profile T20 World Cup match between South Africa and Afghanistan. The arrests took place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, Ahmedabad, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb such illicit practices during major sporting events.
Strict Vigilance Leads to Multiple Arrests
The arrests were executed as part of routine patrolling operations inside the stadium. Senior police officers had issued directives to maintain strict vigilance against illegal betting activities, particularly during high-profile matches like the T20 World Cup. This proactive approach resulted in the detention of the four suspects at different times and locations within the stadium premises.
Details of the Arrested Individuals
The first arrest involved Satkar Dipkumar Shah, a 38-year-old businessman from Gandhinagar. He was detained around 4:35 PM from Block 7, Bay 1 (Upper) for allegedly placing live bets using a mobile application. Police seized his mobile phone and captured screenshots as crucial evidence.
Shortly before this, Rahul Bulani, a 28-year-old resident of Ulhasnagar in Maharashtra, was apprehended from the same block around 3:20 PM. He was accused of using another betting application, and authorities confiscated his mobile phone along with secured screenshots.
Earlier in the day, Nitin Patel, a 40-year-old resident of Thaltej, was taken into custody from Block F, Bay 2 (Lower) around 2:40 PM for allegedly betting online during the match. In a fourth case, Vishwadeep Jate, a 30-year-old from Anand district, was detained from an upper seating block for allegedly placing bets through a website.
Legal Actions and Ongoing Investigations
All four individuals have been booked under relevant sections of the Gujarat Prevention of Gambling Act. Police officials have confirmed that further investigation is underway to trace the source of the betting IDs and uncover possible links to larger syndicates. This move underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to dismantle organized gambling networks that exploit major sporting events.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by online betting, especially during international tournaments. Authorities continue to urge the public to refrain from such illegal activities and cooperate with law enforcement to maintain the integrity of sports.
