Hyderabad Police warn of crackdown on IPL betting syndicates

With the commencement of the IPL season, the Hyderabad City Police has issued a warning against betting syndicates, stating that strict action will be taken against those involved in online and offline gambling.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar said that despite earlier action leading to the banning of several betting apps, illegal activities have resurfaced in new forms. Fraudsters are now using websites and social media platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp and Instagram to lure users into betting and related scams.

He said police are maintaining close surveillance on both online operations and offline betting networks, including gatherings in residential houses and farmhouses where bets are placed using mobile phones. Local bookies were also found targeting youth and pushing them into debt, he said.

The commissioner warned that stringent measures, including invocation of the Preventive Detention Act, would be taken against those involved in such activities. Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious betting activity through Dial 100 or the police WhatsApp number. Police said public cooperation is crucial in tackling the issue.