Odisha Police busts gambling den, 9 detained, Rs 6 lakh cash seized

A major gambling racket was unearthed in Sambalpur on Saturday after Dhanupali police conducted a surprise raid at a hotel within their jurisdiction. At least nine people were found gambling inside a hotel room when the police team intercepted the operation mid-way. 

A huge amount of money was involved in the game, police said.

During the raid, the gamblers panicked on seeing the police and attempted to destroy evidence. In a desperate move, they allegedly threw large amounts of cash into the toilet commode and tried to flush it. However, police quickly sensed the attempt to outsmart them and recovered the money. round Rs 6 lakh in cash and several mobile phones were seized.

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Repeat Offenders Under Scanner

According to police sources, all nine detained individuals are seasoned gamblers with previous records. Acting on the instructions, Dhanupali police traced their movement and zeroed in on the hotel after receiving specific information about their whereabouts.

Questions Over Hotel Owner’s Role

The incident has raised serious questions about the role of the hotel owner. Police officials noted that food was being repeatedly ordered to the room while the gambling session was underway. However, the hotel owner denied any involvement, claiming he neither had prior knowledge nor received any commission from the activity.

Ongoing Probe

Police are currently interrogating the nine accused and probing how so many people were allowed to stay inside a single room without raising suspicion. Authorities said further action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation, as efforts continue to uncover any wider links to the illegal operation.