Chittoor police have intensified the surveillance on illegal lotteries, cautioning that purchasing, selling or promoting unauthorised tickets is a criminal offence under State law.

Speaking to the media here on Saturday, Superintendent of Police (SP) Tushar Dudi said that special teams had been formed and continuous checks were under way across the district to curb illegal lottery rackets that dupe people with false promises of quick money.

“Organising, selling, buying, storing, transporting or advertising lotteries without government permission in Andhra Pradesh is completely illegal. Strict legal action will be taken against all those involved,” he said.

Mr. Dudi cautioned the public against misleading advertisements such as “huge profits with small investment”, “win lakhs with one ticket”, and “daily draws”. He warned that anti-social elements were targeting youth, workers and middle-class families.

The SP said that during the 2025-26 year-long drive, the police registered 32 cases, arrested 55 accused, and seized 2,369 lottery tickets and ₹3.7 lakh in cash.

“Illegal lotteries are not just a financial fraud but are also destroying families. Chasing easy money pushes people into debt, domestic problems and mental stress. The public must earn honestly and invest safely,” the SP said.

He said that the police were thoroughly monitoring social media platforms for fraudulent online promotions and sales. Intermediaries and promoters will face the same charges as the organisers, he cautioned.

People with information on illegal lotteries can contact the nearest police station, Dial-112, or the Chittoor police WhatsApp number 9440900005.

Published - July 25, 2026 08:01 pm IST