Noida Betting Gang Busted; Phone Linked to Delhi School Threat Emails

Noida Police have dismantled an interstate online betting fraud network, arresting six individuals and uncovering a potential link to threatening emails sent to schools in Delhi. During the investigation, authorities recovered a mobile phone that allegedly contains multiple threatening messages, which may help investigators trace the origin of repeated bomb threats that have disrupted academic activities in the national capital.

The device was recovered during a Special Task Force (STF) probe into a recovery email associated with the threats. Officials confirmed that the phone has been sent for forensic examination to determine whether there is a direct connection between the threatening emails and the illegal betting operation.

Delhi schools have received several bomb threat emails in recent months, forcing evacuations and disrupting classes. The latest threats were reported on Thursday, prompting renewed concern among authorities and parents. The arrests relate to an earlier threat message sent to schools on January 23, which triggered a detailed digital investigation.

According to investigators, the threatening email initially appeared to originate from the United States. However, technical analysis of the associated recovery email revealed digital links to Bangladesh and India. Further cyber tracking led authorities to Greater Noida, where the suspects were apprehended.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Amish Jung Karki from Nepal, Anant Kumar from Agra, Divyashu and Sahil Kumar from Bihar, and Lekhnath Sharma and Kedarnath, both Nepali nationals. Police identified Amish as the primary accused, noting that he had studied in Australia.

Investigators revealed that the group operated an illegal online betting network disguised as a call centre, functioning from locations in Indirapuram, Ghaziabad, and Shahberi in Greater Noida. During raids, authorities seized multiple electronic devices believed to have been used in the operation.

Preliminary interrogation suggests the gang used fake email identities with American-sounding names to contact potential victims. Several such accounts were found active on confiscated devices. The accused allegedly used virtual private networks (VPNs) and GPS spoofing applications to conceal their locations and evade detection.

The group primarily targeted individuals in the United States, India, and Nepal, persuading them to invest in online betting schemes and collecting significant sums of money. Investigators believe the suspects also provided technical support services to betting platforms.

Police recovered four laptops, 22 mobile phones, debit and credit cards, passports, identity documents, and cash during the raids. Authorities are continuing to investigate the extent of the fraud, including the total financial losses, possible international links, and the duration of the operation.

The forensic analysis of the recovered mobile phone is expected to play a critical role in determining whether the suspects were involved in sending the threatening emails to Delhi schools or if the device was used by another linked network.