Udupi Police Conduct Major Gambling Bust, Seize Valuables Worth Rs 38.9 Lakh
In a significant crackdown on illegal gambling activities, the Malpe police in Udupi district executed a successful raid that led to the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of valuables totaling approximately Rs 38.9 lakh. The operation took place near a resort in Kadekar village, located within Udupi taluk, on Friday evening.
Details of the Raid and Seizures
The police team, led by PSI Eeranna Shiragumpi, conducted the raid around 10:50 PM at a location near the Padukere stream estuary. Upon arrival, officers discovered six persons engaged in gambling activities at an old shelter situated in a public area. While five suspects were apprehended at the scene, one managed to flee and evade capture.
The items recovered during the operation include:
- Playing cards used for gambling
- Cash amounting to Rs 4.9 lakh
- Four mobile phones
- A power bank
- Two vehicles with an estimated value of Rs 34 lakh
This comprehensive seizure underscores the scale of the illegal operation and the resources involved.
Identities of the Arrested Individuals
The five men taken into custody have been identified as follows:
- Nithin Raj, aged 35, from Ambalamogaru
- Sachin R Shetty, aged 35, from Palimaru
- Sathish, also known as Kishore, aged 38, from Kuthkorigudde, Mangaluru
- Ranjith K Ameen, aged 39, from Surathkal, Mangaluru
- Ravi, aged 36, from Sadashiva Nagar, Surathkal
Authorities are actively pursuing the individual who escaped during the raid to ensure all parties involved are held accountable.
Legal Actions and Charges
A formal case has been registered against the arrested individuals under Section 112 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 87 of the Karnataka Police Act. These charges relate to gambling in a public place and other associated offenses, highlighting the legal framework being applied to combat such activities.
The raid near the Padukere stream estuary demonstrates the police's commitment to enforcing law and order in public spaces, particularly in areas prone to illicit gatherings. This operation serves as a stern warning to those involved in similar illegal endeavors across the region.
