2 held for running illegal Matka gambling in Udupi, police seize Rs 1,200 cash and slips

UDUPI: Two persons were arrested for their alleged involvement in illegal Matka gambling activities, SP Hariram Shankar said.Vittal Devadiga was arrested on Saturday near the Ashwatkatte bus stand in Shankarapura, Kurkalu village, while he was reportedly writing Matka lottery slips.

Police seized one Matka slip and Rs 1,200 in cash from his possession.During interrogation, Devadiga allegedly admitted to collecting illegal gambling money from the public. His confession was supported by information provided by Leo Cornelio, a known Matka bookie from Udupi. Investigations revealed that the duo operated in a coordinated manner, misleading the public and unlawfully collecting money through the banned gambling practice.A case was registered at Shirva Police Station under Sections 112, 316(2), and 318(2) read with 3(5) of the BNS, and Sections 78(i)(iii) of the Karnataka Police Act. Police said that Vittal Devadiga has 12 previous cases against him, while Leo Cornelio was booked in around 34 cases. Both accused were taken into custody and produced before the court.