Karnataka Congress MLA KC Veerendra Arrested in Multi-Crore Betting Racket

Gangtok, Sikkim(OT Webdesk) — August 23, 2025: In a sweeping crackdown on illegal betting and money laundering, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Karnataka Congress MLA KC Veerendra in Gangtok. The arrest follows extensive raids across 30 locations, revealing a sprawling financial network tied to offshore gaming platforms and casino operations.

Authorities seized Rs 12 crore in cash—including Rs 1 crore in foreign currency—alongside gold jewellery worth Rs 6 crore, 10 kg of silver, and four vehicles. The ED also froze 17 bank accounts and two lockers, and confiscated property documents from Veerendra’s brother, KC Nagaraj.

Investigators allege that Veerendra’s son and brother operated online betting platforms such as King567, Raja567, Puppy’s 003, and Rathna Gaming from Dubai. The probe uncovered a complex web of financial layering and offshore transactions linked to gaming and call centre businesses.

Five casinos in Goa—Puppy’s Casino Gold, Ocean Rivers Casino, Puppy’s Casino Pride, Ocean 7 Casino, and Big Daddy Casino—were searched as part of the investigation.

Veerendra was produced before a judicial magistrate in Gangtok and is expected to face further interrogation regarding the origin and movement of illicit funds.