CricketBetting – Police Bust Alleged Illegal Betting Network, 13 Held
CricketBetting – Police in Andhra Pradesh have uncovered an alleged cricket betting operation in Proddatur, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals and the seizure of cash, mobile devices, and other electronic equipment believed to have been used in the illegal activity.
Investigation Triggered by Intelligence Inputs
According to police officials, the action was initiated after authorities received reliable information regarding suspected betting activities taking place in different parts of the town. Based on the intelligence gathered, law enforcement teams launched a detailed inquiry to verify the information and identify those involved.
Assistant Superintendent of Police U Vibhu Krishna stated that the operation was carried out under the supervision of local police officers following instructions to crack down on unlawful betting practices linked to cricket matches.
Initial Detentions Led to Larger Network
As part of the investigation, police first took into custody two key suspects identified as Sheikh Javeed, also known as Balaji, and his maternal uncle Sheikh Jilani. During questioning, investigators reportedly obtained information suggesting the existence of a wider betting network operating beyond the immediate area.
The disclosures made during interrogation prompted authorities to expand the probe and deploy additional teams to track other individuals allegedly connected to the operation.
Raids Conducted Near Bypass Road
Acting on the information collected, special police teams carried out searches at locations near a tea shop situated close to KMH Function Hall on the Yerraguntla Bypass Road. The coordinated raids resulted in the arrest of 13 suspects believed to be associated with the betting syndicate.
Officials reported that a total of ₹11.34 lakh in cash was recovered during the operation. In addition, bank accounts allegedly linked to the network were frozen, with authorities securing approximately ₹14.12 lakh held in those accounts.
The combined value of the seized and frozen assets has been estimated at ₹25.46 lakh.
Digital Devices Seized During Operation
Investigators also confiscated 17 mobile phones and one tablet device that were allegedly used to facilitate betting transactions and communication among members of the network.
Police believe the operation relied heavily on digital platforms to manage activities. Preliminary findings suggest that communication and betting-related exchanges were conducted through mobile phones, messaging applications, online platforms, and UPI-based payment systems.
Youth Allegedly Targeted Through Quick-Profit Promises
Authorities stated that the accused allegedly attracted participants by promoting the prospect of earning fast money through betting on cricket matches. Investigators claim that young people and students were among those targeted by the network.
According to police, Sheikh Javeed is suspected of overseeing financial transactions and handling technical equipment used in the operation. Meanwhile, Sheikh Jilani allegedly coordinated with customers, maintained records, and shared information with individuals identified as Abbas and Imtiaz, who are believed to have been connected to external betting activities.
Further Probe Continues
Police officials have indicated that the investigation remains active and that efforts are underway to determine the full scale of the alleged betting network. Authorities are also examining possible links to additional individuals who may have been involved.
Assistant Superintendent of Police U Vibhu Krishna praised the efforts of Inspector P. Vamsinath, Sub-Inspector R. Raghavendra Reddy, Head Constable Sanjeeva Kumar, Constables Guru Shekhar and Madhusudan Reddy, along with other members of the Proddatur Sub-Division police team, for their role in the operation.