ED Ramps Up Investigation into Betting Apps Case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is taking the betting apps case to a deeper level of investigation. In this regard, actor Prakash Raj presented himself before the ED office at Basheerbagh on Wednesday morning for questioning.
Summons for Film Celebrities
The ED suspects online betting promotions-related money laundering. Various celebrities from the film world have been summoned. Actor Rana was summoned on July 23 but sought some time. The ED postponed his appearance to August 11. Vijay Deverakonda is summoned on August 6, and Manchu Lakshmi on August 13.
Cases Filed in Multiple Locations
This inquiry is based on previous police complaints regarding promotions of betting apps. These complaints were registered in Panjagutta, Miyapur, Suryapet, and Visakhapatnam. On the basis of these reports, the ED initiated its investigation.
29 Influencers Under Investigation
The 29 names in the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) include cinema stars, YouTube personalities, and social media influencers. They are said to have marketed gambling sites such as Jungle Rummy, Jeetwin, and Lotus 365. The authorities say these endorsements had confused teenagers. Some of them were said to have lost money, and some even committed suicide.
Financial Trail Under Scrutiny
In reaction to the development, Telangana Police has registered five FIRs. The ED is currently also probing if operators of betting apps paid promoters hawala channels. Telangana Police has provided preliminary findings to the ED to aid in the investigation.
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