CBI nabs Mahadev ‘kingpin’ at Hyd airport after arrival from Dubai | Hyderabad News

Hyderabad: The CBI on Thursday arrested Abhishek Kumar, alleged to be one of the kingpins in the Mahadev online betting app network, shortly after he arrived from Dubai at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA).According to the CBI, its probe has revealed that Kumar played an active role in operating online betting and gambling activities under the Mahadev Book platform, including coordinating betting panels and collecting funds generated through the network.The CBI alleged that he was involved in acquiring immovable properties in Dubai using proceeds allegedly generated from the betting and gambling operations.Material seized after arrestThe CBI said a search conducted immediately after Kumar’s arrest led to the seizure of material that allegedly linked him to the operation of the Mahadev betting network.According to investigators, the seized material prima facie suggests that Kumar worked closely with other key accused, including Saurabh Chandrakar and Shubham Soni.Following his arrest, Kumar was produced before a local court in Hyderabad, which granted the CBI three days’ transit remand. He was subsequently taken to Raipur and produced before a court there, which granted the agency two days’ police custody.Eight chargesheets filedThe CBI had taken over 13 FIRs registered at different police stations in Chhattisgarh after the state govt transferred the Mahadev betting app cases to the central agency for investigation.So far, the CBI has filed eight chargesheets against 100 accused people. Those named include the alleged promoters of the Mahadev betting app, panel operators, hawala operators, and public servants from the Chhattisgarh govt. Separate cases linked to the betting app are also being investigated by the Telangana police.The CBI said further investigations are under way to trace other absconding accused and identify funds and assets allegedly generated through the illegal betting network.The CBI is also pursuing efforts to bring the main promoters of the Mahadev betting app back to India to face trial. According to the CBI, seven red corner notices have been issued so far in connection with the case, while two extradition proposals have been sent. Extradition proceedings against two accused are currently under way.