Federal criminal investigation department chief M Kumar said the raids targeted seven office and warehouse premises identified as hubs for developing online gambling platforms and supplying slot machines and spare parts for both domestic and international markets.

He said a total of 147 people aged between 20 and 50 were arrested, comprising 116 men and 31 women. Among them were seven foreigners, one of whom is a woman.

Police seized 139 laptops, 182 mobile phones, 126 monitors, 84 access cards, nine desktop computers, six routers, and five slot machines.

“Investigations revealed that none of the raided premises had authorisation from any authority, including the finance ministry, to develop or supply gambling machines, spare parts, or online gambling platforms, or to promote gambling activities,” he said.

He said 133 of the detainees have been charged with criminal conspiracy under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953. The seven foreigners were charged with violating the terms of their immigration passes or permits.