Suresh Raina Appears Before ED in 1xBet Probe; Celebrity Endorsements Under Scrutiny

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina on Wednesday appeared at the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) office in New Delhi after being summoned for questioning in connection with the ongoing investigation into the 1xBet betting app case.

According to officials, Raina’s name surfaced during the probe due to advertisements and endorsements he had undertaken for the online platform. Investigators sought details of his professional relationship with 1xBet, including endorsement contracts, financial transactions, and any associated business arrangements. The questioning is being carried out under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Sources told Maverick News that investigators have traced a pattern in which payments from app users were credited to accounts with changing names and details each day, but were eventually routed to the same 1xBet account. Large sums were allegedly transferred abroad from this account.

The ED has not confirmed whether Raina is being treated as an accused or simply as a witness providing information. Official confirmation on his status is awaited.

Wider Crackdown on Betting Apps

Raina’s summons is part of a broader enforcement action against illegal betting applications, many of which have been promoted by prominent film and sports personalities. In May, the ED registered cases involving 25 well-known actors, including Rana Daggubati and Prakash Raj. Both have denied wrongdoing, stating they no longer promote such platforms and that earlier campaigns were restricted to jurisdictions where online skill-based games are legal.

On August 11, Rana Daggubati appeared before the ED in Hyderabad over alleged involvement in the illegal promotion of betting portals. The agency is also probing the financial and digital records of other celebrities named in the FIR, including Manchu Lakshmi, Nidhi Agarwal, Ananya Nagalla, and television host Srimukhi.

Manchu Lakshmi, an actor and producer, appeared before ED officials in Hyderabad on Wednesday. She was questioned about her endorsement deals for betting apps, the nature of contracts signed, and payments received. Her statement was recorded, and details of related financial transactions were sought. Lakshmi is the fourth actor to be examined in the case.

The investigation into 1xBet and other similar platforms continues, with the ED indicating that more celebrity summonses may follow as it tracks money flows and promotional links to the betting industry.