Major Breakthrough: CBI Brings Back Key Figure from Rs 6,000-Crore Betting Scandal

In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has extradited Sourabh Chandrakar, the alleged kingpin of the Rs 6,000-crore Mahadev online betting app, from Oman. This operation highlights India's commitment to tackling transnational crime. Chandrakar, who faces multiple charges, will appear in a special court in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The CBI's efforts, in collaboration with international agencies, underscore the seriousness of addressing illegal betting syndicates that exploit Indian citizens. The investigations reveal a complex web of illicit activities, including money laundering and corruption, linked to this case. Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 1, 2026, 20:51 IST

CBI Successfully Extradites Betting Kingpin

New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully extradited Sourabh Chandrakar, the alleged mastermind behind the Rs 6,000-crore Mahadev online betting app, from Oman, as confirmed by officials on Sunday.

A team from the CBI that was dispatched to Oman has brought Chandrakar back to India, where he is set to appear before a special court in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on Monday.

Chandrakar is facing charges in two cases filed by the CBI and one by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), with chargesheets already submitted, according to a spokesperson from the CBI.

Following a Red Corner Notice issued against him, the Royal Oman Police located and detained Chandrakar, the official stated.

Upon receiving information from Muscat, the CBI and ED promptly submitted formal extradition requests to the Sultanate of Oman, including all evidence against the accused.

The extradition process was carried out in close collaboration with Indian government agencies and the Interpol National Central Bureau, with assistance from the relevant authorities in Oman, the spokesperson noted.

This extradition represents a significant achievement in India's ongoing efforts to repatriate fugitives involved in transnational criminal activities targeting Indian citizens, ensuring they face justice under Indian law.

The CBI had initiated investigations into the Mahadev Online Book cases at the request of the Chhattisgarh government.

Investigations revealed that Mahadev Online Book was one of the largest illegal online betting operations in India, managed from abroad. It facilitated illegal betting on various sports and events through a network of franchises across India, which enrolled users and collected bets.

The agency alleged that the illicit funds generated from these betting activities were funneled through numerous mule bank accounts, obscured by multiple transactions, and transferred abroad via hawala channels.

Further investigations indicated that a portion of the proceeds was used to pay off public officials to ensure the syndicate could operate without interference.

The CBI has filed cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act, while the ED has registered cases under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, as stated by officials.

Sourabh Chandrakar is among the primary accused listed in these chargesheets, with the ED having attached several properties linked to this syndicate both in India and overseas.