Kanpur IPL betting scam: Deals struck in moving cabs, ₹100 crore routed through 150 accounts

A sophisticated IPL betting and illegal online gaming racket operating from Kanpur has been busted, with investigators revealing that transactions worth nearly ₹100 crore were routed through around 150 bank accounts. The gang adopted unusual methods to evade detection, including conducting financial deals inside moving cabs.

Police have so far arrested eight accused, including a lawyer and his son, both of whom were allegedly actively involved in the operation. The lawyer’s son had reportedly purchased two vehicles and registered them as cabs specifically to facilitate betting transactions on the move. All arrested individuals have been sent to jail, while 15 others remain absconding.

According to officials, the racket was part of a larger network controlled by a Dubai-based mastermind who developed clone websites of banned betting platforms. These included names such as Lotus 365, Reddy Book, Kartike, and Dubai EXH. The network expanded across multiple states by recruiting thousands of members, each assigned specific roles and responsibilities.

Investigations have identified Mohit as the key operator in Kanpur, with Vimal from Lucknow overseeing operations. Each district was assigned a branch code, with Kanpur operating under code 24. Local handlers were responsible for processing payments, transferring winnings, and managing user accounts. Members were reportedly paid monthly salaries ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh.

During the crackdown, police seized 26 mobile phones and froze ₹52 lakh across 52 bank accounts, with the total frozen amount expected to rise further as more accounts are traced. Police teams have launched search operations in Lucknow and Prayagraj to apprehend the absconding accused, while further details are expected once banking records are fully accessed.