Mahadev Book Co-Founder Ravi Uppal Arrested in Dubai

Ravi Uppal, co-founder of the alleged illegal betting network Mahadev Book, has been arrested in Dubai, according to ANI. Indian authorities have initiated proceedings to secure his extradition.

The development follows the extradition of fellow co-founder Saurabh Chandrakar from Oman. India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) describes Mahadev Book as one of the country’s largest illegal online betting syndicates operated from abroad. 

India Seeks Uppal’s Return

Uppal’s reported detention marks a further development in the investigation into the platform and its overseas operations. His extradition remains a separate process from the arrest and has not been reported as completed.

NDTV reported on November 4 that Indian agencies had learned of the detention through sources, while formal notification from UAE authorities was still awaited at that point.

The broadcaster also reported that Uppal had previously been detained in Dubai in December 2023 following an Interpol Red Notice, but was released approximately 45 days later. 

Chandrakar Remanded Until November 12

Chandrakar was detained by the Royal Oman Police following an Interpol Red Notice and escorted back to India by a CBI team.

On November 4, a special court in Raipur remanded him to police custody until November 12 and authorised investigators to take him to Delhi for questioning.

According to the CBI, Chandrakar is wanted in two cases in which chargesheets have already been filed. India’s Enforcement Directorate has also filed a prosecution complaint in a separate case. The CBI investigation into Mahadev Book began at the request of the Chhattisgarh government.