Mumbai: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has unearthed startling revelations in the Mahadev betting case, shedding light on the ambitious real estate aspirations of the alleged kingpin, Saurabh Chandrakar. Investigations have uncovered his plans to acquire a 5-star hotel and resort near Mumbai, with assistance from a prominent Mumbai broker. Sources indicate that Chandrakar was actively scouting prime properties around the city, fueling speculation about an opulent investment venture that could have complemented his betting empire.
Luxury Real Estate Aspirations
In the latest twist in the Mahadev betting case, ED’s scrutiny of Saurabh Chandrakar’s activities revealed his intent to venture into the world of luxury real estate. The kingpin had set his sights on acquiring a significant land parcel near Mumbai, where he aimed to develop a prestigious 5-star hotel and an indulgent resort, complete with a plethora of amenities.
Mysterious Property Holdings in Bhopal
Adding another layer of complexity to the investigation, ED unearthed that Chandrakar, along with his associate Ravi Uppal, had amassed properties worth crores in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. These acquisitions included substantial land parcels and numerous bungalow plots, obtained several years ago under circumstances that raise suspicions. Authorities have initiated verification procedures to unravel the mysteries surrounding these property holdings.
Intensive Investigation into Property Transactions
The Enforcement Directorate has embarked on a comprehensive inquiry into the properties acquired in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. This investigation encompasses scrutiny of payment methods, sellers, acquisition details, and the individual acting as a proxy in these property transactions on Chandrakar’s behalf. Simultaneously, ED officials are maintaining close contact with the Mumbai broker, who had been facilitating Chandrakar’s foray into the city’s real estate scene.
Broadened Focus on Business Assets
Beyond the scope of properties in Mumbai and Madhya Pradesh, ED’s purview extends to other assets, investments, and business holdings potentially concealed under the names of Chandrakar’s trusted associates. Insiders reveal that legal procedures are being fast-tracked to seize these assets, ensuring that the noose tightens around the alleged kingpin.
ED’s Sustained Attention on Mahadev App Panel Operators
The Enforcement Directorate is intensifying its scrutiny of the Mahadev app’s panel operators, who played a pivotal role in facilitating property transactions for Saurabh Chandrakar. These operators were instrumental in transferring a substantial 70 percent of the betting profits to him through Hawala channels, executing property investments as per Chandrakar’s instructions.
Key Role of Panel Operators
Sources confirm that panel operators were integral to Chandrakar’s illicit betting enterprise. ED’s investigations have unveiled that the Mahadev app’s advertisements lead potential clients to a call center via a WhatsApp number. This call center serves as the bridge connecting clients with panel operators, who guide them through the process of opening accounts, placing bets, and handling financial transactions. The extensive network comprises approximately 4,000 to 5,000 panel operators, mainly based in Chhattisgarh, Mumbai, and Delhi, each catering to up to 200 clients.
Profit Sharing and Hawala Transfers
Crucially, the founders of the Mahadev app shared profits with panel operators on a 70:30 ratio, with the lion’s share, 70 percent, making its way to Chandrakar through Hawala channels, creating a web of financial intricacies in this high-stakes betting operation.
