Sourabh Chandrakar Offers Mahadev Network Details, Seeks Witness Protection
Sourabh Chandrakar, the alleged mastermind behind the multi-crore Mahadev Online Book betting network, has offered to disclose details of the entire network to Indian authorities in exchange for a witness-protection arrangement, according to agency sources.
Chandrakar is currently lodged at the Al Khoud detention centre in Muscat, Oman, after being detained by the Royal Oman Police on the basis of an Interpol Red Notice. Expressing fear for his life, he has requested Omani authorities not to deport him directly to India without due process, seeking legal remedies and security safeguards available under Omani law.
According to an officer familiar with the extradition proceedings, Chandrakar told the Royal Oman Police and Oman’s Public Prosecution that he is willing to cooperate with Indian agencies. However, he argued that he could not be certain of his safety inside an Indian prison due to alleged political interests surrounding the case. He claimed to fear a life-threatening attack allegedly linked to a senior political leader from Chhattisgarh and other influential figures.
Chandrakar claimed that he was politically dragged into the controversy and selectively portrayed as the principal mastermind while other figures remained behind the scenes. He also told Omani authorities that he possesses details of properties and financial interests linked to the political leader and others in the United Kingdom, including London, as well as the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, and other Gulf jurisdictions. It remains unconfirmed whether he has submitted independent documentation to substantiate these claims.
Before any potential transfer to India, Chandrakar has requested several safeguards. These include protection for himself and his immediate family, secure detention separate from individuals linked to the network, judicial oversight during questioning, preservation of documentary and electronic evidence, and an opportunity to record his statement before a competent court.
Indian agencies are pursuing his extradition following the transmission of required documentation. However, the handover has not yet been cleared, as Omani authorities are independently investigating Chandrakar for entering the country on a forged passport issued by a Southeast Asian nation. Under bilateral treaties and standard legal practice, Omani courts evaluate extradition evidence and typically prosecute domestic offences before deciding on a handover.
