Enforcement Directorate: Properties Worth 7.93 Crore of Sonu Sood, Urvashi Rautela's Mother, and Others Attached in Betting App Case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a major crackdown in a money laundering case linked to illegal betting applications, leading to the attachment of properties belonging to several prominent personalities. This extensive action involves Bollywood actor Sonu Sood, actress Urvashi Rautela's mother,. Mimi Chakraborty, Neha Sharma, Ankush Hazara, former cricketers Yuvraj Singh, and Robin Uthappa. In total, the ED has provisionally attached assets worth 7, while 93 crore rupees as part of its ongoing investigation, highlighting the pervasive reach of illegal betting within the entertainment and sports industries.

Details of Attached Properties

This entire case revolves around an alleged illegal betting application, specifically 1xBet, which is reportedly registered in Curacao. The ED has been actively investigating this app and similar betting platforms for a considerable period, following accusations that these entities have defrauded numerous individuals and investors of crores of rupees. During the course of its investigation, the ED identified several film and sports personalities who were either involved in promoting these apps or were otherwise associated with them.

These individuals were subsequently summoned for questioning. The current action has been taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which empowers the agency to attach properties identified as 'proceeds of crime' derived from illicit activities. According to the provisional attachment order issued by the ED, the properties seized include assets valued at approximately 1 crore rupees belonging to Sonu Sood. Actress Mimi Chakraborty's property worth 59 lakh rupees, Neha Sharma's assets valued at 1. 26 crore rupees, and Ankush Hazara's property worth 47 lakh rupees have also been attached, while Plus, property registered in the name of Urvashi Rautela's mother, amounting to 2. 02 crore rupees, has also been seized by the ED.

From the sports fraternity, former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh's property worth 2. 5 crore rupees and Robin Uthappa's assets valued at 8. 26 lakh rupees are also part of this action. This comprehensive list underscores the broad scope of the ED's investigation, encompassing personalities from various sectors.

Basis of Action Under PMLA

The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) grants the ED the authority. To attach properties that are believed to have been acquired through illegal means. In this particular case, the ED has categorized these attached properties as 'proceeds of crime' derived from alleged illegal betting apps like 1xBet. This classification is based on detailed investigations and evidence gathered, which includes prior interrogations of these celebrities. The ED maintains that these properties are directly linked to. Funds generated through illegal betting, thereby substantiating the money laundering allegations.

Impact on Entertainment and Sports Industries

This significant action has sent ripples through both the entertainment and sports industries. The involvement of several high-profile personalities has amplified the seriousness of the issue. The promotion of or association with illegal betting apps, whether intentional or unintentional, raises significant legal and ethical questions. The ED's move serves as a clear message that no individual, regardless of their fame, will be spared if found involved in illicit activities. This case also acts as a cautionary tale for other. Celebrities to exercise extreme caution before associating with such platforms.

Ongoing Investigation and Future Outlook

The ED has clarified that the investigation into the 1xBet case is still active, and further revelations are anticipated. The agency is continuing its probe, and it remains to be seen what additional information will emerge as the investigation progresses. Such cases often involve lengthy legal processes, which may include the final confiscation of properties and further legal action against the individuals concerned, while this case could mark a pivotal moment in India's ongoing battle against illegal betting and money laundering.