Did Suresh Raina Appear Before ED in Illegal Betting Case?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Suresh Raina summoned by the ED for questioning.
- Linked to the ongoing investigation into 1xBet.
- Inquiry conducted under the PMLA.
- Other celebrities also scrutinized for illegal betting endorsements.
- Ongoing crackdown on illegal betting platforms.
New Delhi, Aug 13 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina arrived at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office in New Delhi on Wednesday after receiving a summons for interrogation related to the ongoing investigation into the 1xBet case.
The agency has indicated that Raina's involvement in this matter stems from various advertisements and endorsements linked to him. The ED team inquired about Raina's complete relationship with the 1xBet app, the endorsement agreements he signed, and any associated financial dealings.
This inquiry is conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Reports indicate that during the transactions made by users of the app, the names and details of recipients changed frequently; however, the funds were ultimately directed to the same 1xBet account.
Moreover, it has been revealed that money was being transferred abroad from the accounts linked to this betting application.
It remains unclear whether the ED has initiated any direct criminal proceedings against Raina or if he is merely being questioned for informational purposes.
Further details and confirmations from the ED are still pending.
This summons is part of a larger crackdown on illegal betting applications and platforms, many of which have celebrity endorsements.
Earlier in May, cases were opened against 25 prominent actors, including Rana Daggubati and Prakash Raj, in relation to these betting investigations.
Both actors have denied any wrongdoing, stating that they no longer support such platforms and that their previous campaigns were restricted to regions where online skill-based games are permitted legally.
On August 11, actor Rana Daggubati appeared before the ED in Hyderabad regarding the investigation into the alleged illegal promotion of online betting portals.
The ED is also scrutinizing the financial transactions and digital activities of several other celebrities mentioned in the FIR, including actors Manchu Lakshmi, Nidhi Agarwal, Ananya Nagalla, and television presenter Srimukhi.
Manchu Lakshmi arrived at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the promotion of illegal betting applications.
As a producer, Lakshmi reached the ED's regional office in Basheerbagh, Hyderabad, at around 10:30 a.m.
The ED officials are expected to question her regarding her endorsements for betting applications, the contracts she entered into, and the payments she received. The central agency may document statements and collect information regarding financial transactions.
Manchu Lakshmi is the fourth actress to be summoned by the ED in this investigation.