₹8 Crore Digital Bets: IPL Gambling Network Busted in Uttar Pradesh

A major online betting racket linked to Indian Premier League (IPL) matches has been busted in Jhansi, with police arresting two individuals and uncovering digital transactions exceeding ₹8 crore , officials said.

Acting on a specific tip off, a team from Sipri Bazar police station raided a house in Mahendrapuri Colony and arrested Anshuman (40) and Abhishek Pathak (31) . According to SP City Preeti Singh , the duo was allegedly operating an organised betting network from the premises during ongoing IPL matches.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused were placing and facilitating bets on various in-game aspects such as wickets, runs, and overs , drawing participants into a large online gambling chain.

Police said scrutiny of four mobile phones recovered from the accused exposed a massive web of digital transactions involving virtual coins worth over ₹8.05 crore . In addition, cash exceeding ₹5,000 was also seized from the spot.

Further financial investigation led authorities to freeze nearly ₹1.80 lakh across nine bank accounts suspected to be linked to the operation.

During interrogation, the arrested individuals reportedly disclosed that they were working under the direction of a man identified as Ravi Kushwaha , a resident of Pathoriya. Police believe he is the main operator of the racket and is currently absconding.

A case has been registered under relevant sections of law, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the alleged mastermind, officials added.

The bust highlights the growing challenge of illegal online betting networks thriving around high profile sporting events like the IPL, often operating through encrypted digital channels and layered financial systems.