Enforcement Directorate Cracks Down on 'FairPlay' Illegal Betting Network

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrests Chintan and Chirag Shah in the ongoing 'FairPlay' illegal betting investigation. The federal probe has led to the seizure of assets worth Rs 345 crores. Krish Laxmichand Shah, identified as the mastermind, operates from Dubai with associates managing technical aspects.

The Enforcement Directorate produced Chintan Shah and Chirag Shah before a special court after arresting them in connection with the 'FairPlay' illegal betting and cricket broadcast case. The operation, part of an extensive probe, saw the Shah duo apprehended in Mumbai on February 12.

Inside sources revealed that the duo was responsible for managing 'technical aspects including operations of the Fairplay app.' In previous searches, ED officials confiscated numerous movable assets, incriminating documents, and digital devices linked to the case.

The investigation has uncovered assets worth approximately Rs 345 crores connected to the scandal. These assets include shares in Demat accounts, mutual fund investments, and a luxury vehicle, all frozen under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The probe originated from an FIR filed by Viacom18 Media Pvt. Ltd., accusing Fairplay Sport LLC and affiliates of illegal activities resulting in significant revenue losses.

Further investigations revealed Krish Laxmichand Shah as the orchestrator operating from Dubai, with Chintan and Chirag overseeing technological operations. Krish reportedly founded several companies in Curacao, Dubai, and Malta to facilitate the illegal betting network, using illicit proceeds to acquire assets registered under various names.

The ED's rigorous search operations, conducted on multiple dates throughout 2024, underscore its commitment to dismantling the 'FairPlay' network and disrupting its illicit betting operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)