Dehradun, June 4 -- The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) has secured the blocking of 86 illegal online betting and gambling websites as part of a crackdown on online gaming and betting networks under the recently enacted Uttarakhand gambling prevention law, officials said on Wednesday. According to STF officials, the action is aimed at curbing online betting syndicates that lure users with promises of quick profits and expose them to financial losses and cyber fraud. The blocked websites were allegedly being used to facilitate illegal betting and gambling activities. The crackdown comes amid the state government's efforts to strengthen action against online gambling. Under the new law, individuals found operating online betting syndicates or gambling networks through websites, mobile applications or other digital platforms can face imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines between Rs.2 lakh and Rs.10 lakh. The legislation also provides for stringent punishment for those running or financing illegal gambling houses, with penalties extending up to five years' imprisonment and fines of up to Rs.1 lakh. Officials said the law also empowers police officers of the rank of sub-inspector and above to arrest individuals involved in gambling activities in public places without a warrant. Authorities can attach and confiscate movable and immovable properties allegedly acquired through proceeds of illegal gambling and betting operations....