Gambling racket busted in Bolangir: Police arrest 11, seize cash and vehicles

A late-night crackdown by Kantabanji police in Bolangir district led to the busting of an active gambling den at Satnamipada in Kadobasa village, resulting in the arrest of 11 individuals and the seizure of cash and valuables on Monday night. The operation was carried out following intelligence inputs that illegal gambling activities had been thriving in the area for a prolonged period.

11 Held, 10 Flee As Police Arrive

During the surprise raid, police reportedly managed to apprehend 11 gamblers, while 10 others escaped under the cover of darkness. Officers recovered Rs 64,500 in cash, four motorcycles, and 11 mobile phones from those arrested. A search operation has been launched to trace the absconding suspects and identify the key handlers operating the gambling network.

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Gambling Network Under Wider Scrutiny

Sources suggest that Bolangir district has increasingly emerged as a hub for organised gambling, with substantial sums of money circulating through these illicit activities. Around 18 people are currently being questioned as part of efforts to determine the scale of the racket and whether larger financial transactions, possibly running into crores, are linked to it.

Kantabanji police are investigating the financial trail and identifying potential masterminds who may be orchestrating gambling operations across the region. Authorities have indicated that more raids may follow as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal gambling and maintain law and order.