Vishal Rajemahadik
Goa: In a significant development in the multi-crore Mahadev Online betting case, alleged kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar has been detained in Oman, with Indian authorities initiating the process to secure his extradition. He is being held for traveling on an alleged fake Indonesian passport on the name similar to that of a Srilankan cricketer – “Ajanta Mendis”. Sources have confirmed that Chandrakar was taken into custody by the Royal Oman Police following an Interpol Red Notice issued at the request of Indian investigative agencies.
Omani authorities have reportedly registered a separate criminal case related to the alleged use of forged travel documents and illegal entry into the country. Indian agencies are now pursuing his extradition to face proceedings in the Mahadev Online Book betting and money laundering investigation. Apart from money laundering, the officials are also probing hawala transactions in this case which is said to be one of India’s biggest financial crimes!
The Mahadev Online Book case is being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and other agencies. Chandrakar is alleged to be one of the principal promoters of the online betting syndicate, which investigators claim generated thousands of crores of rupees through illegal betting operations.
In a recent development reported by multiple media outlets, investigators are also looking into allegations that the forged passport carried a name resembling that of a former Sri Lankan cricketer.
Indian authorities have forwarded an extradition dossier through the appropriate diplomatic channels. The extradition process is expected to proceed in accordance with Omani law and applicable international legal procedures. Sources have confirmed that any transfer of custody will depend on the outcome of judicial proceedings in Oman, including the separate case relating to the alleged forged passport.
The 6000 crore Mahadev Online Book investigation has attracted nationwide attention since 2023, when the ED alleged that the betting syndicate operated an extensive network facilitating illegal online gambling and money laundering. The investigation has also involved attachment of assets and multiple charge sheets against various accused.
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