ED Busts IPL Betting Syndicate in Assam-Delhi Raids, Cash, Luxury Cars Seized

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted overnight searches across Assam and Delhi in a money laundering probe linked to an illegal IPL betting network , exposing yet again the deep-rooted shadow economy that continues to thrive around cricket despite repeated crackdowns.

Acting under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the agency raided premises in Guwahati, Tinsukia, and New Delhi , following FIRs registered by Assam police against several accused, including Deepesh Bajoria, Ronak Bajoria, and Rajesh Jain . The investigation later expanded after additional FIRs pointed to an interlinked betting syndicate operating across districts.

According to the ED, the racket functioned as a hierarchical, tech-enabled network where bets on IPL matches were placed and settled through encrypted messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram , alongside offshore betting platforms. The proceeds were allegedly routed through UPI, bank transfers, and cash , then laundered through family networks and associates to disguise illicit gains.

During the searches, officials seized digital devices, coded transaction records, and communication logs , along with ₹13 lakh in unaccounted cash . Three luxury vehicles including a Mercedes-Benz, MG Hector, and Toyota Fortuner were also confiscated, suspected to have been purchased using proceeds of crime. Several bank accounts linked to the operation were frozen.

The ED also identified a commercial outlet in Guwahati operating under the name “Roycee” (formerly “Playboy”) as part of the network’s footprint.

Despite repeated enforcement actions over the years, cricket’s shadow betting economy remains vast and adaptive , increasingly shifting to encrypted digital platforms and offshore systems. Investigators say the ecosystem continues to evolve faster than enforcement mechanisms, highlighting how deeply entrenched illegal betting remains within the sport’s commercial shadow world.