In a decisive move to curb the growing menace of illegal betting during the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Odisha Police have launched a statewide crackdown, resulting in the arrest of 18 persons and the seizure of massive amounts of cash and assets.
According to a press note issued by the State Police Headquarters today, four separate cases have been registered across different districts. Police conducted multiple raids, busting active betting rackets and seizing ₹36,85,200 in cash, freezing ₹39,42,611 in various bank accounts linked to the illegal operations, two luxury cars, and 13 mobile phones.
Puri District Records the Biggest Haul
Puri Police achieved the most significant success in the operation. In a single case, four accused were arrested, with ₹25,35,000 in cash recovered from their possession. Additionally, ₹31,81,244 was frozen from their bank accounts, along with six mobile phones. The coastal district appears to have emerged as a hotspot for IPL betting activities this season.
Other Districts
- In Sundargarh, five persons were arrested in one major raid. Police seized ₹6 lakh in cash, froze ₹17,61,367 in bank balances, and recovered five mobile phones.
- Jharsuguda Police delivered a strong blow by arresting eight accused — the highest number in a single district. They seized ₹5 lakh in cash and two cars used in the betting operations.
- In Berhampur (Brahmapur), one person was arrested with ₹50,200 in cash and two mobile phones confiscated.
Senior police officials stated that the operation was carried out based on specific intelligence inputs to dismantle the network of bookies and illegal betting operators exploiting the excitement of IPL matches. The drive is part of a larger commitment to make Odisha free from organised crime and unlawful activities.
The police have warned that such operations will continue unabated throughout the IPL season and beyond, with a clear message to anti-social elements involved in betting rackets.
