An elaborate app-based online gaming racket was busted by the police in northwest Delhi’s Sultanpuri, leading to the arrest of nine individuals, including the kingpin, Bhuvender, a repeat offender with five prior cases.
The gang operated by luring young users into downloading unauthorised gambling apps via QR codes and shady links, completely bypassing official app stores. Victims were enticed to purchase virtual tokens through UPI and net banking, enabling them to place bets online.
After operating for a few months under one app name, the platform would vanish and later reappear with a different identity to trap fresh users.
According to DCP (Outer) Sachin Sharma, the users were asked to scan a QR code and enter an OTP, granting them access to the fake gambling interface. The operation revealed a Mumbai-based mastermind controlling the network remotely.
Police raided the gambling hub on September 5, where the accused attempted to flee but were apprehended. The raid resulted in the seizure of:
Rs85,320 in cash
6 computer setups
Several gambling-related items
An FIR has been registered, and the racket has been sealed. Officials confirmed that the fraud violated the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, which bans real-money betting and promotional activities related to such games.
