Sourabh Chandrakar, a key accused in the Mahadev online betting app case, has been brought back to India from Oman following an extradition operation coordinated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and other central agencies.
A specially deputed CBI team travelled to Oman and escorted Chandrakar to India on Sunday, November 1. According to the agency, he will undergo a medical examination and be taken to Raipur after the necessary transit remand formalities. He is scheduled to appear before the CBI Special Court in Raipur on Monday, November 2.
Chandrakar is wanted in two CBI cases in which chargesheets have already been filed. He is also an accused in a separate Enforcement Directorate (ED) case, in which a prosecution complaint has been submitted. He has not been convicted, and the allegations will be examined through the legal process.
The CBI said its investigation found that the Mahadev Online Book network allegedly operated from outside India through a chain of franchised panels and branches. Users were reportedly recruited to place bets on cricket, football, card games and other events. Investigators allege that betting proceeds were routed through multiple bank accounts and transferred abroad through hawala channels. The agency also alleges that some money was paid to public servants to protect the operation.
The extradition followed action by the Royal Oman Police based on an Interpol Red Corner Notice. Indian agencies subsequently submitted formal extradition requests with supporting evidence. The CBI has acknowledged the cooperation of Omani authorities and Interpol.
Timeline: Key developments
- July 2026: Chandrakar was reportedly detained in Oman.
- November 1, 2026: A CBI team brought him back to India.
- November 2, 2026: He is scheduled to appear before the special CBI court in Raipur.
Five warning signs of a betting-app trap
- Promises of guaranteed winnings or unusually high returns.
- Pressure to deposit money quickly to claim a bonus.
- Requests to transfer money to personal bank accounts or unknown UPI IDs.
- No clear company details, licence or customer-support information.
- Difficulty withdrawing money, followed by demands for extra payments.
Avoid sharing banking details or OTPs with such platforms. If you suspect online financial fraud, report it promptly through the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or the official cybercrime portal.
