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What is Mahadev Betting App Scam?

The Mahadev Betting App Scam is a recent scandal that has come to light in India. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is currently investigating

By Ground report 16 Sep 2023 | Updated On 29 Apr 2024 14:09 IST

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The Mahadev Betting App Scam, a recent scandal in India, has prompted an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The scam centers around the Mahadev Online Betting app, alleged to have facilitated illegal betting websites and money laundering through a network of benami bank accounts.

Mahadev Betting App Scam

Operated from a central head office in the UAE, the app's promoters reportedly spent approximately Rs 200 crore in cash on a lavish wedding ceremony in February 2023, hiring private jets to transport family members from Nagpur to the UAE and engaging celebrities for performances.

In connection with the Mahadev app, the ED seized assets worth Rs 417 crore and summoned individuals like Tiger Shroff and Sunny Leone linked to the scam. Mumbai Police arrested actor and YouTuber Sahil Khan from Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, on April 27th, following his interrogation by the Special Investigating Team (SIT) for over three hours.

Despite seeking anticipatory bail, which was denied by the Bombay High Court, Khan was deemed "directly connected" to the online betting application. His involvement with the Lotus Book 24/7 betting app, a part of the Mahadev network, led to his arrest, with assistance from the Chhattisgarh Police in a 40-hour operation.

Khan faces charges related to a scam estimated at Rs 15,000 crore. The investigation, initiated by the Matunga Police and now under the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), implicates several individuals, including Sahil Khan, under various sections of the IPC, Gambling Act, and IT Act. The Mahadev app's founders allegedly had dealings with the D-company, a criminal organization linked to Dawood Ibrahim, according to the Enforcement Directorate.

Promoters face evidence, lavish wedding

The ED conducted searches in multiple cities, leading to the arrest of four accused so far. Non-bailable warrants have been issued for absconding suspects, with the founders of the app suspected to be operating from Dubai. The investigation revealed large-scale hawala operations to transfer proceeds offshore and significant cash expenditures in India for advertising and self-promotion.

In addition to the mounting evidence against the promoters, one of them, Sourabh Chandrakar, recently held a lavish wedding ceremony in the UAE, reportedly costing around Rs 200 crore. Bollywood celebrities were hired for performances, and private jets were used to transport guests. The ED is investigating Bollywood actors and singers for their involvement in the Mahadev online betting case, including their attendance at the wedding and success party of the app’s promoter in the UAE.

The Mahadev Betting App Scam has garnered attention from law enforcement agencies in India, with the ongoing investigation expected to reveal more details soon.

Mumbai's cyber cell's Special Investigation Team (SIT) has detained Sahil Khan, a Bollywood actor and fitness influencer, from Chhattisgarh in connection with the Mahadev betting app scam. Khan's arrest came after the Bombay High Court rejected his plea for pre-arrest bail, citing his direct involvement with an online betting application.

Who Is Sahil Khan?

Sahil Khan, known for his roles in Bollywood films like 'Style' and 'Excuse Me,' gained initial fame through a musical video for Stereo Nation's "Nachange Sari Raat." Transitioning into fitness advocacy, Khan has earned recognition for promoting health awareness in Mumbai.

His personal life, including a notable marriage to Negar Khan in 2003 and subsequent divorce in 2005, has also attracted attention. Recently, Khan introduced his new partner Milena as his 'wife' on social media, revealing a complex personal narrative.

Despite challenges in his film career, Sahil Khan's influence in fitness remains robust, reflected in his brand Divine Nutrition and gym chain. Reports suggest his net worth ranges between Rs 40 to Rs 60 crore, attesting to his multifaceted entrepreneurial ventures.

Khan's ownership of a private jet further adds to his affluent lifestyle. Upon returning to Mumbai post-arrest, Sahil Khan reiterated his faith in India's judiciary, indicating a cooperative stance in legal proceedings. However, his partnership in 'The Lotus Book App' raises questions about regulatory oversight.

Link To The Betting Case

Sahil Khan's connection to the Mahadev betting app case arises from allegations of his involvement in promoting online betting platforms, particularly the Khiladi Book linked to Mahadev. Social activist Prakash Bankar initiated the complaint, highlighting various web portals facilitating illegal betting activities across sports and card games. The Mahadev betting app case, estimated at Rs 15,000 crore, signifies a substantial illegal transaction network under investigation by Mumbai Police. Sahil Khan's connection to 'The Lion Book App' within this network prompted his arrest, signaling a broader crackdown on financial irregularities in Maharashtra.