Udupi: In a robust move against illegal gambling, Udupi police have launched a targeted operation to dismantle a widespread Matka betting syndicate active in the district. Acting on crucial leads provided by a Matka operator apprehended in a case under Shirva police limits, authorities cracked down across multiple locations.

The probe led to the registration of 12 separate cases throughout Udupi district. As a result, 12 individuals allegedly involved in the unlawful activity were arrested by various police stations.

Those arrested include:

  • Prakash Moolya (43) from Sheriadka (Malpe PS),

  • Ratnakar Ameen (48) of Kodavoor (Malpe PS),

  • Nagesh (56) of Badagabettu (Manipal PS),

  • Vijay Nayari (50) of Karkad (Kota PS),

  • Divakar Poojary (42) of Petri,

  • Ramaraj (44) of Moodanidamburu,

  • Jagadish (39) of Kunjibettu,

  • Chidananda (35) of Ambagilu,

  • Thippeswamy (52) of Kodavoor,

  • Raghavendra (41) of Santakatte,

  • Uday S. Bhandar (45) of Udupi — all under Udupi city PS, and

  • Manoj Kumar of Uchila (Padubidri PS).

    • This swift and coordinated crackdown was initiated under the leadership of District SP Hariram Shankar. The newly appointed officer identified the dismantling of illegal betting networks as a top priority and acted without delay.

    Police confirmed that the arrests were made based on inputs from Matka bookie Leo Cornelio, who remains central to the ongoing investigation.

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