The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized assets worth Rs 11.14 crore from former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan in connection with a money laundering case linked to the illegal betting platform 1xBet.
The case has caused a major stir, with several celebrities from sports and film industries now under investigation for promoting or collaborating with offshore betting companies operating illegally in India.
Celebrities Under ED Scanner
The ED has already questioned Yuvraj Singh, Robin Uthappa, Sonu Sood, Urvashi Rautela, former MP Mimi Chakraborty, and Bengali actor Ankush Hazra as part of the ongoing probe.
1xBet’s Illegal Operations in India
Registered in Curacao, 1xBet claimed to have nearly two decades of global experience in betting. However, it ran its operations in India without approval. Investigators found that 1xBet and its associated brands promoted and facilitated illegal betting across the country.
Funds collected from Indian users were reportedly moved through more than 6,000 mule accounts, concealing the original source of money. So far, over 60 accounts have been frozen, blocking around Rs 4 crore.
Raina and Dhawan’s Promotional Deals
According to ED, Raina and Dhawan had signed advertising deals with foreign entities linked to 1xBet. Payments for these endorsements were routed through intermediaries abroad to disguise their origin. Officials believe these promotions gave 1xBet undue credibility while bypassing Indian regulations.
Widening Online Betting Network
The case underscores how fast online betting grew before the government banned real-money gaming earlier this year. Reports suggest around 22 crore Indians were registered on betting apps, with nearly half being regular users. Platforms like 1xBet took advantage of this user base to expand their reach and profits.
ED’s Warning to Public
The ED has issued an advisory cautioning people against promoting or participating in online betting and gambling. It also warned that those allowing their bank accounts or wallets to be used for such activities could face prosecution under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which carries penalties of up to 7 years in jail and confiscation of assets.
Crackdown Sends Strong Message
The 1xBet investigation reveals how deeply illegal betting networks have penetrated sports and entertainment sectors. With Raina and Dhawan’s assets seized and multiple celebrities questioned, ED’s crackdown serves as a warning that endorsements tied to unregulated platforms can lead to serious legal consequences.
