Hyderabad Police warn against illegal betting as IPL season begins

With the IPL season underway, Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar cautioned citizens against illegal betting on platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Authorities are monitoring offline operations, warning of financial risks, and urging reporting via Dial-100 or WhatsApp.

Hyderabad: With beginning of the much-awaited IPL season, Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has issued a strong advisory urging citizens to stay away from betting activities and enjoy cricket as a sport.

In a video message on Saturday, the commissioner cautioned that despite the earlier crackdown and ban on hundreds of betting apps, illegal betting networks have resurfaced through platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp and Instagram.

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He further warned that strict action will be taken against social media influencers promoting betting apps for monetary gains.

Police are also closely monitoring offline betting operations reportedly being conducted in farmhouses and other secluded locations.

Highlighting the risks, Sajjanar noted that betting often leads to severe financial distress, pushing individuals and families into debt.

He requested citizens to report betting-related activities on Dial-100 or by contacting the police through WhatsApp on 94906 16555.