Pune cops hot on heels of bookies

The crime branch of the Pune police with their six teams will keep a watch on bookies against the backdrop of the cricket World Cup final between India and Sri Lanka in Mumbai on Saturday.
Additional commissioner of police (crime) Prabhakar Patil told DNA, “We have already arrested some last week.”

The crime branch had busted betting rackets in Pimpri, Kondhwa and Bhawani Peth in the past two weeks and arrested 11 bookies. The police had seized computers, cellphones and cash from the suspects. However, many bookies are still believed to be active.

Officials said betting takes place for each over or a span of five to 10 overs. They are known as ‘sessions’ in the satta (illegal betting) market. Also, the runs being made during power
play are betted on.

Police sources said Lonavla, Khandala and places close to Pune and Mumbai, as well as holiday destinations such as Mahabaleshwar, Matheran and Goa are considered bookies’ dens.

Senior police officers at the crime branch said fast bowlers are favourites among bookies, as they take more time to bowl. So, they can attend at least six calls from betters. But when spinners attack, they can attend around two calls.