Goa: In a major breakthrough in India’s crackdown on illegal online betting networks, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully secured the extradition of Sourabh Chandrakar, the alleged kingpin and promoter of the Mahadev Online Book betting syndicate, from the Sultanate of Oman. A specially deputed CBI team escorted Chandrakar back to India following the approval of the extradition request by Omani authorities.
According to a CBI press release dated November 1, 2026, Chandrakar is wanted in two CBI cases in which chargesheets have already been filed, as well as a separate Enforcement Directorate (ED) case in which a prosecution complaint has been submitted. He is expected to be produced before the CBI Special Court in Raipur after undergoing a medical examination and obtaining transit remand.
The CBI took over the investigation into the Mahadev Online Book cases at the request of the Chhattisgarh government. Investigators found that the betting syndicate was allegedly operating from outside India and had developed an extensive network of franchised ‘panels’ and ‘branches’ across the country. These networks reportedly facilitated illegal betting on cricket, football, card games and other events, enrolling users and collecting stakes through a widespread operation.
The investigation further revealed that proceeds generated through illegal betting were allegedly routed through numerous mule bank accounts, layered through multiple transactions and transferred abroad using hawala channels. The agency also alleged that a portion of the proceeds was used to pay protection money to public servants to ensure the syndicate could operate without interference.
The CBI has filed chargesheets invoking provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and offences relating to criminal conspiracy, cheating and forgery under the Indian Penal Code, along with provisions of the Chhattisgarh Gambling (Prohibition) Act. Chandrakar is among the key accused named in these chargesheets. Meanwhile, the ED has attached several properties in India and abroad in connection with the investigation.
Chandrakar was located and detained by the Royal Oman Police following a Red Corner Notice. The CBI and ED subsequently submitted formal extradition proposals to Oman, supported by evidence gathered against him. The operation involved coordination with Indian government agencies, Interpol’s National Central Bureau and Omani authorities.
The extradition marks a significant step in India’s efforts to bring alleged fugitives involved in transnational criminal networks back to face legal proceedings. Chandrakar will now face the judicial process in India, while the investigations into the wider Mahadev betting network continue.
