Nagaur (Rajasthan): Police in Rajasthan’s Nagaur district have busted a large organized online cricket betting network that had reportedly been operating for nearly 10 years. The illegal business was running through a digital system based on secret IDs and passwords, involving bets worth crores of rupees. In a joint operation by DST and Kotwali police, raids were conducted at Bhiwraj Complex on Tausar Road, leading to the arrest of two accused and seizure of a large number of electronic devices.
Police received a tip-off during late-night patrolling that a secret online cricket betting hub was operating on the first floor of the complex. Acting on the information, a police team led by Sub-Inspector Amar Chand Gora immediately reached the spot. DST personnel were also present during the operation. During the search, several suspicious documents and digital devices were found, suspected to be used for betting transactions.
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During the investigation, police recovered 21 registers, 2 diaries, 1 bill book, 1 cheque book, 2 calculators, 1 Wi-Fi setup box, 1 computer system, 1 Apple laptop, 3 ATM cards, and 4 Android mobile phones. Data related to online betting on a cricket match between Pakistan and England was also found in one of the mobile phones, indicating that the network was active even during international matches.
According to police, the arrested accused have been identified as 40-year-old Ashok Bhati, a resident of Sufiya Colony, Nagaur, and 30-year-old Himmatram Gehlot, a resident of Bhikala Bas, Nagaur. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused provided customers with secret IDs and passwords through online websites and multi-level systems. These IDs were used to conduct the entire betting transaction digitally.
Authorities believe that the racket was not limited to Nagaur and may have connections across other states. Police are now investigating the bank accounts of the accused, digital payment records, and seized electronic devices through forensic analysis. The investigation team is also trying to identify the mastermind behind the network and other possible collaborators.
The police presented both accused before the court, which sent them to four-day police remand until March 1. During the remand period, investigators will attempt to identify other individuals associated with the network and determine who provided financial support to this organized crime.
According to investigation officials, detailed forensic examination of all seized electronic devices and banking transactions is underway. Nagaur police have stated that action against online betting and illegal gambling networks will continue in the future, and such organized criminal activities will not be allowed to grow.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
