Gambling den busted during Janmashtami festivitiy in Sundargarh; 14 held, 20 cars and 19 bikes seized

In a major crackdown during Janmashtami festivities, police raided Dhuruadihi village in Sundargarh on Saturday, arresting 14 people and seizing vehicles, mobile phones and cash. The operation exposed large-scale gambling that was taking place openly near the village fair

Gambling At Playground Behind Police Station

Every year, the village hosts Jhulan Jatra as part of Janmashtami festivities, drawing crowds for cultural programmes and a local fair. This time, however, gambling activities were undergoing in plain sight at a football field located just behind the police station. Using local equipment, the participants continued their betting until a special team swooped in on the spot.

Gamblers Apprehended, Many Escape

The sudden raid triggered panic among those present. While several managed to flee in the chaos, police succeeded in apprehending 14 individuals from the scene. 

According to reports, those arrested hail from Sambalpur, Jharsuguda and Bamra areas. Their detention has shed light on how gambling networks were operating under the cover of festive gatherings.

Seizures And Ongoing Investigation

The raid resulted in the seizure of Rs 1.03 lakh in cash, along with 20 cars, 19 bikes and 20 mobile phones. Police have begun verifying the ownership of the seized vehicles as part of the investigation. The 14 detained suspects are being interrogated, and further efforts are on to trace those who escaped during the operation.