Actor Sonu Sood appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in a money-laundering case related to the online betting application 1xBet on Wednesday. The ‘Dabangg’ actor underwent questioning by the ED for over seven hours.
A video of Sood leaving the ED office post-questioning has been circulating on social media, showcasing him exiting the premises and entering his car.
On Tuesday, former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh also visited the ED. He arrived at the agency’s Delhi office around noon, accompanied by his lawyer. Sources indicate that he provided details about his promotional arrangement for the company.
Yuvraj’s questioning occurred simultaneously with that of actress and influencer Anveshi Jain. Both were reportedly required to furnish personal details and documents, including Aadhaar and PAN.
The ED initiated its investigation into the app following a lavish reception hosted by one of the founders of the gambling platform in the UAE. This probe has also unveiled a Rs 5,000 crore hawala racket operating across the UAE and Pakistan.
Former cricketer Robin Uthappa also appeared before the ED on Monday. Prior to this, former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan faced questioning regarding alleged money laundering linked to an “unauthorised” gaming app that he endorsed in advertisements. Additionally, former cricketer Suresh Raina was questioned by the ED in the same 1xBet case.
The 1xBet India website claims to offer a wide array of sports betting options for registered users. It lists various games such as the Aviator Game Online, cricket betting, and online casino slots, accepting bets through Telegram payments on sports events including football, basketball, cricket, tennis, and e-sports.
In light of ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct, the company has withdrawn its services from the UK, the US, Russia, Spain, and France.