The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued summons to several high-profile actors and influencers in connection with an ongoing investigation into a massive illegal betting app scam.
Among those summoned are some of Telugu cinema’s most recognisable faces, 'Arjun Reddy' star Vijay Deverakonda, actor Rana Daggubati, and veteran actor Prakash Raj. Rana Daggubati is expected to appear before the ED on July 23, followed by Prakash Raj on July 30, Vijay Deverakonda on August 6, and Lakshmi Manchu on August 13.
The ED's action follows the registration of an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The report is based on a series of FIRs filed across multiple jurisdictions, including Panjagutta, Miyapur, Suryapet, Cyberabad, and Visakhapatnam. All complaints allege active promotion of unlawful betting platforms by a mix of film celebrities, social media influencers and digital creators.
According to officials familiar with the case, these apps allegedly manipulate users into high-risk bets and gambling transactions involving crores of rupees. The complainants claim that celebrity endorsements of these platforms, particularly on Instagram and YouTube, have contributed to their widespread reach and public credibility.
Initial findings suggest that celebrities may have received compensation in cash or kind to promote these apps, despite their illegal status. The probe aims to uncover whether any proceeds of crime were laundered or knowingly accepted through these promotions.
While none of the stars have publicly commented yet, industry insiders are closely watching the developments.