Hyderabad Cybercrime Police Bust Major Online Betting Scam, Pune-Based Accused Arrested
Hyderabad Cybercrime Police arrested a 32-year-old Pune-based man for allegedly running an illegal online gaming and cricket betting racket. The accused reportedly cheated multiple victims across India, including a Secunderabad resident who lost ₹55 lakh. Investigations have linked the suspect to 22 cyber fraud cases nationwide, highlighting the growing threat of organised online betting scams.
Hyderabad Cybercrime Police Crack Major Online Betting Scam; Pune-Based Accused Arrested
Hyderabad Cybercrime Police have arrested a 32-year-old man from Pune, Maharashtra, identified as Vishal Anil Nirmal, for allegedly running a large-scale cyber fraud operation involving illegal online gaming and cricket betting platforms. The accused is suspected to have cheated multiple victims across India, with financial losses running into crores of rupees.
According to police officials, the case came to light after a Secunderabad-based complainant reported being defrauded of ₹55 lakh. The victim was allegedly targeted as early as 2021 through WhatsApp messages that promoted online betting platforms claiming to offer easy and assured returns.
Investigators revealed that the accused initially allowed victims to earn small, fake profits to build confidence and trust. Once convinced, victims were persuaded to make larger and repeated investments across various unauthorised betting websites. Over time, the complainant continued investing significant amounts, eventually suffering heavy financial losses.
Key Details of the Case (Overview Chart)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused Name | Vishal Anil Nirmal |
| Age | 32 years |
| Place of Arrest | Pune, Maharashtra |
| Nature of Crime | Illegal online gaming & cricket betting fraud |
| Major Victim Loss | ₹55 lakh (Secunderabad) |
| Year Fraud Began | 2021 |
| Cases Linked Nationwide | 22 cyber fraud cases |
| Platforms Used | Illegal betting websites, agent IDs |
| Money Handling | Mule bank accounts, shell companies |
Police further stated that the accused operated the betting platforms through agent IDs and promoted them aggressively using social media advertisements and bulk WhatsApp campaigns. The fraudulently collected money was routed through dozens of mule bank accounts, many of which were opened under the names of fake shell companies to conceal the money trail.
To avoid law enforcement detection, the accused reportedly used multiple SIM cards, different mobile devices, and various digital payment applications. Such techniques point towards a well-planned and organised cybercrime network, rather than an isolated act.
Authorities confirmed that at least 22 cyber fraud cases across the country have been linked to the accused’s bank accounts and digital transactions. Police are currently tracing the money trail and conducting further investigations to identify and arrest other individuals involved in the racket.
During the arrest, officials seized laptops, mobile phones, SIM cards, debit cards, cheque books, and rubber stamps associated with shell companies, which are believed to be crucial evidence in establishing the financial and operational structure of the fraud.
Conclusion
This case highlights the growing threat of online betting and gaming-related cyber frauds in India. It also underlines the importance of public awareness, early reporting, and strict monitoring of digital financial transactions to prevent such scams. Police have urged citizens to remain cautious of online platforms promising guaranteed or risk-free profits, as these are often indicators of fraud.
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