Mahadev betting app co-promoter Ravi Uppal reportedly arrested in Dubai
New Delhi: Mahadev online betting app co-promoter Ravi Uppal has reportedly been arrested in Dubai, officials said. However, UAE authorities have yet to formally inform India about the development.
Indian investigative agencies received information about the reported arrest through informal channels. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have begun efforts to secure his return to India for further investigation.
If confirmed, the arrest would mark another development in the probe into the alleged illegal betting network. It comes days after authorities extradited fellow co-promoter Saurabh Chandrakar from Oman to India.
Earlier detention in Dubai
Uppal and Chandrakar allegedly ran the Mahadev Online Book platform from Dubai. Both left India in 2019 and later became key accused in the investigation. Dubai authorities had detained Uppal in December 2023 following an Interpol Red Notice against him. He was subsequently released.
His whereabouts became unclear after he reportedly left the UAE. Uppal also challenged the Red Notice before Interpol’s Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files. He alleged that the cases against him were politically motivated.
Alleged betting money trail
The ED has examined how the alleged syndicate collected and moved betting proceeds through bank accounts, hawala operators and overseas entities. Investigators allege that the platform used a franchise model, with betting panels and branches across India. These outlets allegedly accepted bets from users and channelled the proceeds through multiple accounts.
According to the agency’s allegations, operators then transferred money abroad through hawala networks. The investigation also covers suspected money laundering and the alleged use of shell companies to hide proceeds from betting activities. The ED’s probe focuses on the financial operations behind the platform and the channels allegedly used to move funds overseas.
Chandrakar brought to India
Indian agencies recently secured Chandrakar’s extradition from Oman through coordination with authorities there. He is wanted in two CBI cases and a separate ED money-laundering investigation. Agencies now seek Uppal’s return as they pursue the alleged network’s operations and financial transactions. Formal communication from UAE authorities about his reported arrest remains awaited.