Since 2023, Indian authorities have been on a relentless hunt for Saurabh Chandrakar, the alleged mastermind behind the Mahadev Online Book betting app. Launched in 2018 with partner Ravi Uppal, the platform later attracted scrutiny for a Rs 6,000‑crore money‑laundering and illegal gambling nexus.

Asset Seizures and PMLA Action

In March 2026, the Enforcement Directorate attached assets worth Rs 1,700 crore, including luxury villas and high‑end apartments in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and other prime locations. A Provisional Attachment Order froze a total of 20 immovable properties, 18 in Dubai and two in New Delhi, bringing the cumulative value of seized assets to roughly Rs 4,336 crore.

Oman Extradition Effort

Authorities recently confirmed that Chandrakar is residing in Oman. The ED has dispatched arrest warrants and extradition papers to the Indian Consulate General in Muscat, seeking to bring the fugitive under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act. The application to declare Chandrakar, Uppal and Vikas Chapri as FEOs is pending in the Raipur Special Court.

Global Footprint of the Scam

Besides Chandrakar, other key accused—Ravi Shankar Dibrewal, Amit Agrawal and Ravi Uppal—are believed to be located in Dubai or Vanuatu. Chandrakar’s dual citizenship (Indian and Vanuatu passports) adds complexity to the extradition process, necessitating coordination across multiple diplomatic channels.

Implications and Legal Challenges

While India and Oman have an extradition treaty, the success of the operation hinges on Oman’s legal procedures and political will. A successful extradition would set a precedent, reinforcing that Indian law can be enforced against overseas suspects involved in large‑scale financial crimes.