Youth held over alleged online gambling operation with 38 casino apps

Detectives in Thakurgaon have arrested a man for allegedly operating an online gambling network through dozens of casino-related mobile applications.

The arrestee, Khorshed Ali, 30, a resident of Maligaon (Kashidanga) village in Jamalpur union under Thakurgaon Sadar upazila, was detained in a special drive on Thursday night following a tip-off, according to the District Detective Branch (DB).

Police said they seized his smartphone and found 38 online casino-related applications during a preliminary digital forensic examination.

According to investigators, Khorshed used casino IDs registered in his name to conduct internet-based gambling through various online portals, websites and mobile apps. They alleged that he not only participated in the gambling himself but also recruited local residents to online casino platforms, causing financial losses to many.

Residents said the spread of online gambling has increased alarmingly in the area, particularly among young people attracted by the promise of easy money. They alleged that many families have fallen into financial hardship due to gambling-related debts, while some people have reportedly taken their own lives under the burden of debt. They also expressed concern that the rise of online gambling and drug abuse is contributing to social degradation.

Locals welcomed the arrest and demanded regular drives against online gambling operators and exemplary punishment for those involved.

Thakurgaon DB Officer-in-Charge Golam Rasul said the police maintain a strict stance against online gambling, narcotics and cybercrime.

“Drugs and online casinos are a serious threat to society. We are taking action against those who misuse technology to defraud people and involve them in illegal gambling,” he said.

He added that drives against online gambling, narcotics and cyber fraud would continue across the district.