Tirupati police arrest matka kingpin Padmanabham after decade-long evasion

Tirupati: The Tirupati district police have arrested a notorious matka kingpin who successfully evaded law enforcement for the past ten years by manipulating various administrative systems.

The high-profile arrest has sent shockwaves through the department, leading to the immediate suspension of two circle inspectors and four constables for their alleged collusion with the matka gambling racket kingpin.

The arrested kingpin identified as Padmanabham, had been illegally running a widespread matka gambling network for over a decade. His operations spanned across Srikalahasti, Tirupati, Nagari, and the border areas of Tamil Nadu, exploiting vulnerable locals and draining the finances of countless families.

During the initial interrogation, Padmanabham disclosed crucial details regarding his operational network, leveling serious allegations that multiple police officers were actively on his payroll to shield him from the law. Taking these claims seriously, Tirupati SP L Subbarayudu ordered an immediate internal inquiry.

The special investigation team subsequently submitted a comprehensive report confirming massive irregularities and establishing that a segment of the local police force was providing direct logistical cooperation to the kingpin.

Following the conclusive findings of the inquiry, higher authorities initiated strict disciplinary action to purge the compromised personnel from their ranks.

The department officially suspended Srikalahasti One-Town circle inspector Prakash Kumar, Puthalapattu circle inspector Gopi, who previously worked in Srikalahasti, and four constables attached to the Srikalahasti DSP office, identified as Praveen, Hemadri, Pratap, and Kranti Kumar.

Additionally, top officials issued a charge memo to Srikalahasti DSP Narasimha Murthy for administrative oversight and failing to curb the illicit activities under his jurisdiction.

Tirupati SP cautioned that the developments signalled a zero tolerance policy of the police department towards organised crime and illegal activities including gambling and warned of stringent action against anyone in the police force, who pledge their support to unlawful activities by misusing their position.