In a significant development in the multi-crore Mahadev Betting App investigation, alleged mastermind Sourabh Chandrakar has been detained in Oman, with Indian authorities initiating formal efforts to secure his extradition. Chandrakar, one of the key accused in the alleged online betting and money laundering syndicate, was taken into custody by the Royal Oman Police based on an Interpol Red Notice issued at the request of Indian investigative agencies.
Detained in Oman on Interpol Red Notice
According to officials, Chandrakar was detained several weeks ago after allegedly entering Oman using a forged passport reportedly obtained from a Southeast Asian country. Omani authorities have also registered a separate case against him over the alleged use of fraudulent travel documents and illegal entry into the country.
He is currently being held at the Al Khoud detention centre in Muscat while legal proceedings continue.
India Initiates Extradition Process
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), acting as India’s nodal agency for extradition, has submitted a formal extradition request to Omani authorities through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Officials have also forwarded a judicial dossier translated into Arabic, in accordance with Omani legal requirements.
Indian agencies are optimistic that strong bilateral ties between India and Oman will facilitate the extradition process, although the final decision rests with Omani courts and authorities.
What Is the Mahadev Betting App Case?
The Mahadev Betting App case is one of India’s largest alleged online betting and money laundering investigations. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleges that the syndicate operated an extensive illegal betting network and generated illicit proceeds estimated at around ₹6,000 crore through online gambling, hawala transactions, and shell companies.
The investigation has resulted in multiple arrests, searches, and the attachment of assets worth hundreds of crores, including luxury properties allegedly linked to the accused. The ED has also alleged links between the syndicate and several public officials, though investigations remain ongoing.
Previous Detention in Dubai
This is not the first time Chandrakar has been detained overseas. In 2024, authorities in the United Arab Emirates briefly detained him following an Interpol notice. However, India’s extradition request was not executed, and he was later released before reportedly leaving the country.
Investigators believe he subsequently travelled to Oman using forged travel documents in an attempt to evade law enforcement.
Investigation Continues
Authorities continue to investigate the alleged financial network surrounding the Mahadev Betting App syndicate, including suspected money laundering, hawala operations, and international financial transactions. Agencies are also pursuing other accused persons connected to the case, including co-founder Ravi Uppal, who remains wanted by Indian authorities.
What Happens Next?
If Omani authorities approve India’s request, Chandrakar could be extradited to India to face investigation and prosecution under multiple laws, including provisions related to money laundering and illegal betting. Until then, he will remain in Omani custody while legal and diplomatic procedures move forward.
