Why was Sonu Sood questioned by ED for over seven hours in the 1xBet case?
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Mumbai, Sep 24 (NationPress) Actor Sonu Sood was summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for an extensive questioning session exceeding seven hours regarding a money-laundering probe associated with the online betting platform known as 1xBet on Wednesday. A video circulating on social media captured the 'Dabangg' star exiting the ED office and entering his vehicle.
On the previous day, former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh also attended the ED's office in Delhi, accompanied by his legal counsel. Reports indicate that he provided information pertaining to his promotional activities for the company.
Additionally, sources suggest that Yuvraj's questioning overlapped with that of actress and influencer Anveshi Jain, with both individuals reportedly required to present personal documents, including Aadhaar and PAN.
The ED's investigation into the app was prompted by an extravagant reception hosted by one of the founders of the gambling platform in the UAE. This inquiry has also unveiled a significant Rs 5,000 crore hawala racket operating between the UAE and Pakistan.
Former cricketer Robin Uthappa appeared before the ED on Monday, while fellow cricketer Shikhar Dhawan previously faced questioning over alleged money laundering connected to an 'unauthorized' gaming app promoted in his advertisements.
Moreover, former cricketer Suresh Raina has also been questioned in relation to the 1xBet case.
The 1xBet India website advertises various sports betting options for its registered users, covering games like Aviator Game Online, cricket betting lines, and online casino slots, and accepts bets via Telegram payments on sports events including football, basketball, cricket, tennis, and e-sports.
Amid ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct, the company has retracted its services from the UK, US, Russia, Spain, and France.