In a significant development in the Mahadev online gaming and betting app case, the Enforcement Directorate has taken decisive action by freezing assets worth ₹580 crore belonging to a Dubai-based “hawala operator.” The probe has revealed startling connections implicating various high-ranking politicians and bureaucrats from Chhattisgarh.
Following fresh raids conducted on February 28 across multiple locations including Kolkata, Gurugram, Delhi, Indore, Mumbai, and Raipur, the Enforcement Directorate has made substantial progress in unraveling the intricate web of illicit activities surrounding the Mahadev app. The agency has seized cash and valuables amounting to ₹3.64 crore, further intensifying its crackdown on money laundering linked to the online gaming platform.
At the center of the investigation stands Hari Shankar Tibrewal, identified as a pivotal “hawala operator” with roots in Kolkata and currently residing in Dubai. Tibrewal’s alleged association with the promoters of the Mahadev app, coupled with his ownership and operation of another suspected illegal betting app named “skyexchange,” has drawn significant scrutiny from authorities.
The Enforcement Directorate has taken decisive action by freezing security holdings valued at ₹580.78 crore, believed to be beneficially owned by Tibrewal, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Additionally, cash worth ₹1.86 crore and valuables worth ₹1.78 crore were seized during the recent searches conducted by the agency.
So far, the probe has led to the arrest of nine individuals implicated in the Mahadev app case. The agency’s investigation has shed light on the alleged funneling of illegal funds generated by the gaming platform to pay bribes to politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh, the home state of the main promoters and operatives of the app.
The Enforcement Directorate has demonstrated its commitment to pursuing justice in this case by filing two charge sheets, targeting key figures including the two main promoters of the alleged illegal betting and gaming app, Sourabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal. Multiple raids conducted earlier as part of the investigation have further corroborated the extensive network of financial irregularities associated with the Mahadev app.
With the projected proceeds of crime estimated at a staggering ₹6,000 crore, the Enforcement Directorate’s relentless pursuit of truth underscores the gravity of the situation. The freezing of assets and the ongoing legal proceedings signal a resolute stance against corruption and unlawful activities, sending a strong message to those involved in similar illicit ventures.
Sources By Agencies
