🛑 Hyderabad Police Bust Illegal Horse Betting Ring Worth Nearly $1M, Four Arrested

Hyderabad, India — A coordinated police operation in Hyderabad, Telangana, has led to the takedown of an illegal horse betting ring involving over 100 bettors and nearly $1 million in recorded transactions.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that four suspects, aged between 45 and 55, were arrested in connection with the scheme. Two additional suspects remain at large.

📱 Betting Ring Operated via WhatsApp

According to The Hans India, the illegal operation was run through a WhatsApp group named “Shinewell Enterprises.”

• The alleged ringleader, a 45-year-old man, had added 105 individuals to the private group.

• Through this platform, members placed illegal horse race bets and engaged in high-volume transactions.

• Authorities estimate that the ring processed approximately ₹8.34 crore — nearly $952,000 USD.

🔍 Raids, Arrests, and Asset Seizures

The operation was carried out by officers from the Jawahar Nagar Police and the Rachakonda Special Operations Team (SOT) Malkajgiri on Sunday.

Seized during the raid:

• ₹2 lakh in cash (approx. $2,300 USD)

• A bank account containing nearly $3,000, now frozen

Two additional suspects, believed to be key members of the ring, are still being sought by law enforcement after failing to report to work following the raids.

⚖️ Legal Consequences Under Indian Law

The suspects are facing charges under the Telangana Gaming Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Depending on the severity and scope of involvement, penalties for illegal gambling in India can include:

• Fines

• Imprisonment ranging from several months up to 5 years

🧠 Gambling Still a Persistent Challenge in India

Despite gambling being largely illegal in India (excluding state lotteries and select regulated activities), online platforms and social media apps have made it easier for illicit gambling operators to reach users.

Police note that cracking down on such rings remains challenging due to:

• Encrypted communications like WhatsApp groups

• Frequent identity masking

• Cross-border elements and digital payments

🚨 Police Urge Public Vigilance

Authorities are urging citizens to report suspicious activities and avoid participation in unauthorized gambling networks, reminding the public of the legal and financial risks involved.

The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests may follow.