Kathmandu Police arrest two in $277K online gambling crackdown

Sankunni K January 29, 2025
Kathmandu Police arrest two in $277K online gambling crackdown

Kathmandu Police have arrested two individuals for their involvement in illegal online gambling, marking the latest in a series of crackdowns against unauthorised betting activities in Nepal. The suspects, identified as Raj Prakash Shrestha, 48, of Ramechhap, and Harichandra Bhujel, 23, of Nuwakot, were allegedly running an illegal online betting operation through a website called Mantra108.

The police seized Rs 90,000 ($1000 approx.) in cash, multiple mobile devices, numerous SIM cards, ATM cards, and chequebooks during the raid. Investigations revealed that the duo had conducted transactions worth more than Rs 24 million ($2,77,000 approx.) through their illicit gambling platform.

Authorities have reiterated that engaging in online gambling is illegal in Nepal and carries severe legal consequences.

Major crackdown in Lalitpur earlier this month

This latest arrest follows a major gambling bust in Lalitpur earlier this month. On 7 January 2025, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) raided a call center in Satdobato, Lalitpur, where they arrested 53 people, including two Indian nationals, for running an illegal online casino.

During the raid, police confiscated 85 laptops, 82 mobile phones, and other electronic devices used in illegal gambling operations. Officials stated that the suspects were running betting schemes targeting Nepali and international gamblers.

Growing trend of online gambling in Nepal

The rise of online gambling in Nepal has become a significant concern for law enforcement. Authorities have carried out multiple operations over the past year, exposing a growing network of illegal gambling operators.

In June 2024, another major operation led to the arrest of six individuals involved in running an online gambling platform called Wolf777 Casino. Investigations showed that the group had facilitated gambling transactions worth Rs 240 million ($27,70,000 approx.) within just two months, according to a report.

Nepalese authorities have warned that such gambling networks often operate through international websites and offshore accounts, making them difficult to trace. However, with recent arrests and stricter enforcement, the police aim to dismantle these illegal operations.

Strict laws against online gambling

Under Nepali law, all forms of online gambling are strictly prohibited. Those caught engaging in illegal betting activities face hefty fines and potential imprisonment.

Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious and avoid participating in such schemes, as these gambling platforms often exploit users financially and operate without any consumer protection measures.

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