Big Celebrities Among 29 Booked for ‘Endorsing’ Betting Apps in Money Laundering Case

ED Betting AAPS: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a money laundering investigation involving over two dozen celebrities, including prominent actors like Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, along with social media influencers and YouTubers. The investigation is part of a probe into certain online betting platforms operating in Telangana, sources confirmed on Thursday.

These online platforms are accused of generating ‘illicit’ funds worth several crores through illegal betting and gambling activities. To investigate this further, the ED has taken cognizance of five separate FIRs filed by state police, booking the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Celebrities Under Investigation

A total of 29 celebrities have been implicated in the case, including well-known figures like Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Manchu Lakshmi, Prakash Raj, Nidhhi Agerwal, Pranitha Subhash, Ananya Nagalla, and TV host Srimukhi. Additionally, local influencers and YouTubers have also been booked. The celebrities are accused of endorsing online betting platforms such as Junglee Rummy, JeetWin, Lotus365, and others in exchange for endorsement fees or celebrity payments.

Claims of Ignorance from Celebrities

Some of these celebrities have reportedly claimed that they were unaware of the exact functioning of the betting apps or the associated illegal activities. They have asserted that they did not engage with these platforms for any illicit purposes or promote gambling in any form. However, the ED is looking into their statements as part of its investigation.

Ongoing Investigation

The Enforcement Directorate is expected to record the statements of the accused celebrities in the coming days. Additionally, the agency is gathering more FIRs and seeking out more complainants who might have been cheated or duped by these betting platforms.

A comprehensive investigation is underway to determine the exact amount of ‘proceeds of crime’ generated by these online betting apps, along with the specific roles played by the celebrities involved. The final determination of their guilt will be made after their statements are recorded, and further evidence is collected.