Online interface, offline network: How the ICC T20 World Cup betting network operated in Rourkela

A large-scale cricket betting racket operating during the ongoing ICC T20 season has been busted in Rourkela following a coordinated police crackdown. Six persons have been arrested, and more than Rs30 lakh in cash has been seized during raids conducted at multiple locations across the city.

According to police sources, the accused were running an online betting operation through a mobile application that allowed users to place wagers on live cricket matches. The platform was allegedly promoted among local youth, particularly during high-profile matches such as the India–Pakistan clash, when betting volumes reportedly surged.

Online Betting, Cash Collection

Despite the digital nature of the betting activity, investigators recovered a significant amount of hard cash from the accused during the raids. Police suspect that while bets were recorded online, many participants, especially local youth, handed over cash to agents to place wagers in anticipation of quick financial gains.

Raids Across Multiple Locations

The crackdown involved raids at more than 10 locations under five police station limits in Rourkela. A case has been registered at Bandhamunda police station in connection with the operation.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Rohit Bagat, Pankaj Bagat, Sonu Rao, Mukesh Sahoo, Jitendra Agarwal and Suresh Khemka. Police also seized a Thar vehicle during the operation.

Wider Network Under Probe

Preliminary investigation indicates that the betting network may have extended beyond Rourkela, with suspected links in cities such as Delhi and Mumbai.

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Rourkela Police have constituted eight special squads to intensify the investigation. While the alleged mastermind of the Rourkela unit has been apprehended, efforts are underway to trace the main kingpin of the broader network.

Authorities are also initiating steps to freeze bank accounts linked to the betting transactions. Police said further arrests and seizures are likely as the investigation progresses.