Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in an ongoing investigation into an alleged illegal online betting application and associated money laundering activities. Sources indicate that Uthappa, aged 39, is scheduled to record his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in a case specifically involving a platform known as 1xBet.
This summons marks Uthappa as the third former Indian cricketer to be called in for questioning by the ED in Delhi concerning this particular case. Previously, the federal investigative agency questioned former cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan over the past few weeks as part of the wider probe.
Additionally, the ED recently recorded the statement of former Trinamool Congress Member of Parliament and actor Mimi Chakraborty. Bengali actor Ankush Hazra also appeared before the ED on his scheduled date. Actor Urvashi Rautela, known as the India brand ambassador for 1xBet, is also expected to comply with her summons.
The core of this investigation revolves around a network of alleged illegal betting applications. These apps are accused of defrauding numerous individuals and investors of significant sums, potentially amounting to crores of rupees, and evading substantial tax payments.
According to its own description, 1xBet positions itself as a globally recognized bookmaker with 18 years of experience in the betting industry. The company claims to offer its customers the ability to place bets on thousands of sporting events, with its website and mobile application accessible in 70 different languages.