Hyderabad: As Diwali celebrations brightened Telangana, police across Nizamabad and Kamareddy intensified raids on large-scale gambling sessions that traditionally accompany the festival. For many, card games such as rummy and teen patti have become an annual ritual after the Lakshmi Puja. However, this year, the celebrations turned costly as police swooped down on dozens of locations and arrested hundreds of gamblers.
Every Diwali night, groups gather in towns and villages across the erstwhile Nizamabad district to gamble through the night. Despite repeated warnings, several traders and local businessmen once again risked thousands of rupees in these illegal games. Consequently, many lost heavily, while a few walked away with modest winnings.
Kamareddy police intensify Diwali gambling raids
In Kamareddy district, police launched a coordinated crackdown on gambling dens spread across multiple stations. Teams arrested 574 people and seized ₹11.86 lakh in cash, 357 mobile phones, and 55 motorbikes. Moreover, the raids extended to Desaipet and Someshwar villages under the Banswada division, where several high-stakes games were underway.
Nizamabad police conduct simultaneous operations
Meanwhile, in Nizamabad district, police intensified operations in Armoor town and nearby villages. They targeted secret gambling dens where traders and farmers were engaged in card games. Officers arrested 110 gamblers, seized ₹2.47 lakh in cash, and registered 20 separate cases. In addition, they confiscated several mobile phones and vehicles used for the gatherings.
Police warn against gambling addiction
According to officials, many participants lost large sums overnight, pushing families into financial distress. Therefore, police appealed to the public to avoid gambling, warning that addiction could destroy livelihoods. They also announced continuous surveillance to deter further gambling during the festive week.
Overall, both districts reported over 680 arrests and nearly ₹14 lakh in cash seizures. Authorities confirmed that enforcement drives would continue until the end of the festive season.