The police in the Varachha area of Surat district, Gujarat, have busted a large online betting racket. The Surat Special Operation Group (SOG) raided the office of "Sunrise Developers," a construction company located in the Meridian Business Center in Mota Varachha. The raid uncovered an organized racket involving illegal online "Dabba" trading and betting, with transactions amounting to ₹963.37 crore. The police seized ₹10 lakh in cash, several mobile phones, computers, and important documents from the site.
8 Accused in Custody, Mastermind Also Arrested
The SOG's operation led to the arrest of 8 members of this betting network. According to the police, the masterminds of this racket are Nandlal alias Nando Gaveriya and his relative Vishal Gaveriya. The accused lured hundreds of investors into their trap with the promise of high returns and tax-free earnings, committing fraud worth crores of rupees.
Betting operations were being conducted through foreign websites
The investigation revealed that the accused were using restricted websites and apps like Betfair.com, Nexonex.com, Pavenec, and English999. Online bets were being placed on football, cricket, tennis, casino games, and other sports through these platforms. Notably, most of these websites have servers located abroad, which has made it challenging for investigating agencies to track them and take technical action.
Cunning Attempts to Destroy Evidence Also Revealed
The police investigation also revealed that the accused were using a paper shredder to destroy evidence. However, due to the SOG's promptness, millions in cash and essential electronic evidence were seized beforehand. Forensic examination of the seized laptops, mobile phones, and other devices is now underway.
Crores in Tax Loss to the Government
According to the police, this gang not only defrauded ordinary citizens but could also be held responsible for crores of rupees in tax loss to the government. All these transactions were kept outside the tax system, which classifies this crime not only as gambling but also as an economic offense.
Network Spread Across the Country
The police say that this racket was not limited to Surat but had its network spread across the country. Investigating agencies are now working to unravel the entire network and are trying to reach those who invested in or benefited from it.
This case in Surat once again demonstrates how crime is being committed in an organized manner under the guise of technology. The operation of a betting business worth crores of rupees under the cover of a construction office not only raises questions about law and order but also indicates that strict monitoring and technical proficiency against cyber and economic crimes are now needed more than ever.
