Ahmedabad Manpasand Gambling Raid: 3 Cops Suspended

AHMEDABAD: Three policemen have been suspended after a major gambling operation at Manpasand Gymkhana in Dariyapur exposed alleged lapses by the local police. The action follows a State Monitoring Cell (SMC) raid on August 2 in which 187 people were allegedly caught gambling, despite the operation reportedly being conducted without the knowledge of the local police.

Those suspended are Dariyapur Police Inspector G.V. Gohil, surveillance squad PSI Chaudhary and Dabgarwad Chowki PSI A.M. Parmar. The charge of Dariyapur police station has now been handed over to the Shahibaug police station PI.

Police sources said the SMC raid uncovered a high-profile gambling operation involving large cash transactions. On August 4, the accused were produced before the Metro Court. Following arguments by public prosecutor Trupti Vyas, the court granted four-day remand of nine accused, while 178 others were granted bail.

The crackdown has also raised questions over how the gambling operation allegedly continued despite previous police action at the same premises.

In 2021, an SMC raid at Manpasand Gymkhana had reportedly resulted in the arrest of 183 gamblers, with property worth around ₹85 lakh seized. Twelve police personnel, including the then Dariyapur PI and PSI, were suspended over alleged negligence.

Investigators have alleged that the latest operation was being run in an organised manner, with 22 tables reportedly rented out and Angadia firms allegedly used for money transactions linked to membership, winnings and losses. Police also suspect coded communication was used to keep the operation discreet.

“The suspension sends a clear message that supervisory responsibility cannot be ignored when illegal activities continue within a police station’s jurisdiction,” officials said.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has also sealed Manpasand Gymkhana after finding alleged violations in the use of the premises. According to officials, portions approved for residential use were allegedly being used commercially.

AMC had previously removed unauthorised construction at the site and taken action over deviations from the sanctioned plan. The latest sealing followed further findings of unauthorised use.

Further investigation into the gambling network, alleged money trail and accountability of local officials is underway.