Chittorgarh, Udaipur, and Salumber Targeted; Cash, Vehicles, and Bank Accounts Seized in Illegal Gambling Probe
Jaipur: The Jaipur Zonal Office of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out extensive search operations on 2nd December 2025 across multiple locations in Chittorgarh, Udaipur, and Salumber districts of Rajasthan. The operation was conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 and targeted illegal financial transactions and assets linked to the ‘Joganiya Online Betting App’ case.
The ED initiated its investigation based on multiple FIRs registered by Rajasthan Police under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, and the Information Technology Act, 2000, against Balmukund Inani and his associates. These FIRs allege that the accused operated illegal online gambling and betting platforms under the name “Joganiya Online Book/App”, facilitating betting on cricket, football, casino games, and other chance-based activities.
Large-Scale Fraud via Online Platform
Investigations revealed that Balmukund Inani and his network collected funds from players both in cash and through online payments. They allegedly lured daily wage earners and salaried youth with promises of huge winnings, enrolling them on the platform and systematically defrauding them. Through this operation, the accused are believed to have cheated players of hundreds of crores, causing significant financial losses to unsuspecting participants.
During the searches, it was discovered that the Joganiya Online Book was being operated through hundreds of mule bank accounts, procured via middlemen on commission. Payments from players were routed through these accounts or received in cash. Operators reportedly disseminated mule account details via mobile phones to integrate illegal proceeds into the formal financial system.
The online betting operations were primarily concentrated in Chittorgarh district and surrounding areas, facilitated through branch IDs, master IDs, and network agents.
Investment Abroad and Property Acquisitions
Evidence gathered during the searches indicates that Balmukund Inani is currently in Dubai and has channelled the proceeds of crime through Hawala networks for investments in real estate and acquisition of immovable properties. Detailed information regarding multiple properties in the names of Inani, his family members, and close associates was obtained during the operation.
Seized Assets and Documentation
The ED seized cash amounting to ₹13 lakh and one high-end vehicle (Jaguar F-Pace) during the operation. Additionally, ₹47.66 lakh in various bank accounts were frozen, along with ₹12.80 lakh in a DEMAT account under Section 17(1) of the PMLA, 2002. Several documents related to movable and immovable assets, details of hundreds of mule accounts, and multiple mobile phones were also seized and are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Implications
ED officials stated that the investigation is still in progress, with detailed analysis of all financial transactions and assets underway. Authorities emphasized that this operation sends a strong message against online gambling and money laundering activities.
The Enforcement Directorate has also warned the public that participation in any illegal online betting or gambling activity can lead to serious legal consequences.
This operation underscores how digital platforms are being misused for financial crimes, and ED reaffirmed its commitment to strict surveillance and enforcement against such networks.
