Sonu Sood appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday in Delhi for questioning in a money-laundering case linked to the online betting app ‘1xBet’. The ‘Happy New Year’ actor reportedly reached the agency’s central office around noon, where officials began recording his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
ED questions several top celebrities
As reported by PTI, the ED’s probe into ‘1xBet’ has already included a list of well-known faces. Cricketers Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa and Yuvraj Singh have all been questioned over the last few weeks. In addition, a number of female social media influencers have been summoned for questioning.
ED probe expands into betting app operations
According to officials, the probe into ‘1xBet’ is part of a larger investigation into online betting apps. These platforms are accused of duping people of crores of rupees and reportedly avoiding huge amounts of direct and indirect taxes.The company itself, registered in Curacao, describes ‘1xBet’ as a global bookmaker with 18 years in the betting business. On its website, it states that customers can place bets on thousands of sporting events and that its app and website are available in 70 languages.
More celebrities expected to be summoned soon
Officials said more sportspersons, film stars, online influencers and other celebrities are likely to be summoned in the coming days.Reportedly, the ED may also soon begin the process of attaching assets belonging to individuals found to be using proceeds of crime generated through the app’s promotions. Once the evidence is gathered, a chargesheet is expected to be filed in court.
Agency checks how celebrities were approached
As part of its investigation, the ED is focusing on how celebrities were first contacted by the company. The agency wants to know who the nodal contact in India was, the method of payment, and whether money was received in India or abroad.The celebrities have also been asked whether they were aware that betting and online gaming are illegal in India. They have been directed to provide copies of their contracts, email communications, and all paperwork relating to their involvement with the app.
Investigation looks into use of funds
The ED is also investigating how the money paid to celebrities was used. Officials want to see if the earnings could fall under the category of “proceeds of crime” as defined by the PMLA. If found to be so, the money could be seized and further legal action taken.Disclaimer: The following news report is based on information from official sources and media reports at the time of publication. It concerns an ongoing investigation, and the details are subject to change as the case progresses. It is important to note that a summons or questioning by a law enforcement agency does not imply guilt or wrongdoing. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The purpose of this report is to provide factual information on the developments of a public interest matter.
