Mahadev App Founder Saurabh Chandrakar Detained in Oman

Top Summary

• What happened: Saurabh Chandrakar, founder of the Mahadev betting app, has been detained in Oman following an Interpol Red Notice.
• Why it matters: This is a significant step in India's pursuit of those involved in a major international betting syndicate, with alleged ties to high-profile individuals.
• What changes: Chandrakar's detention brings him closer to facing legal proceedings in India, potentially leading to further revelations about the syndicate's operations.
• Who is affected: Investors, authorities investigating the Rs 6,000 crore alleged crime proceeds, and potentially implicated politicians and bureaucrats are affected.

Mahadev App Founder Detained in Oman

Saurabh Chandrakar, the prime accused and founder of the notorious Mahadev betting app syndicate, has reportedly been detained in Oman. This development comes after weeks of being on the run.

Indian authorities are actively pursuing his extradition or deportation, aiming to bring him back to face charges. The Royal Oman Police apprehended Chandrakar based on an Interpol Red Notice issued by Indian investigative agencies.

Investigation Details and Previous Escapes

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and state police have been investigating the Mahadev app, which is alleged to be a massive international betting syndicate. Previous reports indicated Chandrakar's location in Dubai, where he was reportedly detained in 2024 but subsequently released.

His co-founder, Ravi Uppal, is said to have fled Dubai for Vanuatu. Investigators previously suggested Chandrakar was traveling on a passport from a Southeast Asian country.

Financial Scope and Syndicate Structure

The Mahadev app is accused of facilitating illegal betting through numerous online platforms and domain names, operating as a franchise-based network across India. The alleged proceeds of the crime are estimated to be a staggering Rs 6,000 crore.

In March, the ED announced the attachment of assets worth Rs 1,700 crore, many of which were located in Dubai, including properties in the Burj Khalifa, linked to Chandrakar and associated entities. Chandrakar, a Chhattisgarh resident, previously ran a juice shop in Bhilai before allegedly leaving for Dubai in 2019.

Bilateral Relations Bolstering Extradition Hopes

Indian officials expressed confidence in securing Chandrakar's return, citing the strong bilateral relationship between India and Oman. This relationship has been further strengthened by recent economic agreements, including a free trade agreement implemented on June 1.

The two-way trade between India and Oman reached $11.2 billion in 2025-26, highlighting the robust economic ties that could facilitate cooperation in legal matters. Both Chandrakar and Uppal have previously denied any involvement in the alleged racket.

What to Watch Next

The focus will now be on the success of India's extradition or deportation efforts. Further investigations are expected to uncover more details about the syndicate's operations and any high-profile individuals allegedly involved.