New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a major crackdown on the illegal Mahadev Online Book betting network, conducting searches at 33 locations across six states and dismantling live betting panels.
As per a statement issued by the national agency, searches were conducted over the last few days following disclosures made by Sourabh Chandrakar, one of the principal promoters of the Mahadev Online Book platform, who was recently extradited from the Sultanate of Oman. CBI arrested him on November 1, 2026, following his extradition.
The Special Judge (CBI Cases), Raipur, subsequently granted the agency eight days of police custody to interrogate him. During questioning, Chandrakar allegedly revealed details about the platform's functioning and its network of panel operators operating across India. Investigators also confronted him with documentary and digital evidence collected during the investigation. His disclosures reportedly helped the agency identify locations linked to the betting operation, paving the way for the latest searches across six states.
The searches have brought several alleged operational aspects of the Mahadev betting network under the scanner. Investigators reported finding live betting and gambling panels at multiple locations. These panels were dismantled during the operation.
The CBI also seized mobile phones, digital devices and documents suspected of containing evidence of financial transactions and operational links. One of the most significant aspects of the investigation involves the alleged use of mule bank accounts and hawala channels to move betting proceeds. The agency is examining how these accounts were opened or hired in the names of other individuals and allegedly used to collect betting money before transferring profits abroad.
How the alleged Mahadev betting network operated
According to the CBI’s investigation, the Mahadev Online Book platform was allegedly operated from abroad through a central head office, while its activities in India were managed through an extensive network of panel operators.
These operators allegedly handled customer IDs and collected betting money through bank accounts opened or hired in other people's names. The money was then allegedly routed abroad through hawala channels.
This structure has become a major focus of the investigation, particularly because it raises questions about financial accountability, identity misuse and the possible involvement of facilitators across multiple locations.
After the completion of his police custody, Sourabh Chandrakar was produced before the Special Judge (CBI Cases), Raipur, on November 12, 2026. The court remanded him to judicial custody until November 19, 2026.
CBI widens probe
The CBI has confirmed that its probe is continuing into the roles of other accused persons, including individuals believed to be located abroad. The agency is also investigating people who allegedly facilitated the platform's operations and public servants whose possible involvement is under examination.
Steps to extradite other absconding accused are also underway. The investigation could expand further as agencies examine the alleged financial network, operational structure and connections associated with the platform. The investigation has implications beyond the alleged operators of an online betting platform.
The alleged use of bank accounts, SIM cards and identity documents belonging to other people highlights the risks faced by ordinary citizens who allow others to use their personal or financial credentials. A person who lends or rents out a bank account, SIM card or identity documents for illegal betting activities could face criminal prosecution.
The CBI has specifically warned the public that online betting and gambling are illegal and that facilitating such activities through personal accounts or identity documents can also constitute a criminal offence. The warning is particularly important for people who may be tempted by offers of easy money in exchange for providing access to their bank accounts.