Police on alert as betting surges ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup final
With India and Pakistan set to clash in the Asia Cup final on Sunday, city police have intensified surveillance after receiving reports of large-scale betting. Officials estimate that crores of rupees could change hands across pubs, restaurants, apartments, and villas. Task forces remain on alert as bookies run operations both offline and online, while betting applications continue to attract heavy activity.
The cricket fever has drawn many young spectators, who stream matches on their phones while placing bets with friends. Police sources said some participants borrow money or pledge valuables to place wagers. People now commonly use digital wallets such as Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe to complete transactions.
Investigators said betting networks communicate using code words. They use “leg” to refer to a wager, “flying” to indicate stronger teams, and “eating” to point to underdogs. Bookies accept calls only from pre-registered numbers and usually settle bets the same day to match the fast pace of T20 cricket.
Bookies coordinate mostly over messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Hike, and Messenger. About 20 minutes before matches, agents spread rumours about team strengths to influence bets. Some bookies rent houses in suburban and central areas to run operations discreetly, often collecting advance deposits to avoid disputes.
City Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagsi confirmed that police have arrested several offenders, but noted that some resumed operations after relocating. Police said most betting now occurs via mobile devices, and organisers have even developed customised software for local networks. Operators from outside the city move to suburban areas and hire assistants to expand their reach.
Authorities warned that police will take strict action against anyone caught betting. FIR registration can affect employment and opportunities abroad. “If you fall into betting, your future will be at stake,” the advisory stated.
Officials urged young people to resist the lure of easy money. “The government issues job notifications. Youth should prepare well and make their parents proud, instead of risking their future through gambling,” the statement added.