The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Abhishek Kumar, described by the agency as a key accused in the Mahadev Online Betting App case, after he arrived from Dubai at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on September 24.
CBI Arrests Abhishek Kumar
According to the CBI, Kumar allegedly played a role in operating betting activities under Mahadev Book, coordinating betting panels, collecting funds and acquiring immovable assets in Dubai using proceeds allegedly generated from betting and gambling.
Investigators searched Kumar after his arrest and seized material that the agency says prima facie indicates his involvement. The CBI stated, “The seized material prima facie shows his active role in the operation of the Mahadev Betting App and he worked closely with other main accused, namely Saurabh Chandrakar and Shubham Soni.”
Kumar was initially granted three days’ transit remand in Hyderabad before being taken to Raipur, where a court granted two days of police custody.
Dubai Assets and Crypto Enter Money Trail
In March 2026, the Enforcement Directorate attached 18 properties in Dubai and two in New Delhi valued at nearly Rs. 1,700 crore. According to the ED, the Dubai assets included luxury villas and apartments in locations including Burj Khalifa.
Crypto has also featured in earlier proceedings. Court records describing ED submissions state that alleged Mahadev proceeds were used for “investment in bitcoin USDT,” alongside property and stock-market investments.
The financial trail has become a significant part of the agencies’ continuing investigation.
Investigation Expands
The CBI took over 13 FIRs previously registered by Chhattisgarh Police. It has since filed eight chargesheets against 100 accused, including alleged promoters, panel operators, hawala operators and public servants.
The agency is also pursuing accused outside India. Seven Red Corner Notices and two extradition proposals have been issued, while extradition proceedings involving two accused remain underway.
Final Thoughts
Kumar’s arrest gives investigators another route into the Mahadev network’s alleged financial structure. With Dubai property, hawala channels and cryptoassets appearing across related investigations, tracing the movement and ownership of alleged proceeds remains central to the continuing probe.
Also Read: Bengaluru Cyber Police Trace Rs. 93.6 Lakh Investment Fraud to 507 Mule Accounts
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