Wardha: A major racket involving online cricket betting, gaming, and illegal financial transactions is suspected to be operating in Wardha city. Police investigations have revealed details about the alleged misuse of current and business accounts for transactions worth crores of rupees. Several well-known cricket bookies are reportedly on the police radar.
Origin of the Case
The case came to light after Pratik Lokhande, a resident of the Borgaon Meghe stone quarry area, alleged that his bank account was misused after he was promised financial benefits for allowing its use. The bank later froze the account after transactions of 22 lakh rupees were detected. Lokhande lodged a complaint with the Wardha city police against Tanmay Bhagat and Sunny Holani. The offense was registered on April 30. Bhagat was arrested from Nagpur on May 15 and later sent to Wardha jail. Holani is absconding, according to police.
Modus Operandi
Police investigations revealed that Bhagat allegedly persuaded several individuals to open current and business accounts in exchange for 10,000 rupees each. He collected their ATM cards, passbooks, cheque books, and four SIM cards. These account kits were then allegedly sold to agents in Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior, and Pune for amounts ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 rupees. The accounts reportedly had transaction limits from 50 lakh to approximately 2 crore rupees. Investigators suspect that these accounts were operated through corporate IDs.
Further Suspicions
Police suspect that agents from Madhya Pradesh stayed at hotels in Wardha for two to three days to facilitate the transactions. The accused has allegedly disclosed the names of 12 to 13 prominent cricket bookies in Wardha. Investigators suspect that the racket may have pan-India links.
Official Statement
Santosh Tale, Police Inspector of Wardha city police, stated, "A special team has been formed for investigation. Information regarding some bank transactions has been received, and more accused may be added in the case." The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the network.
