Suresh Raina Summoned by ED in 1xBet Illegal Betting Probe
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to appear at its Delhi office on Wednesday. The summons is part of an ongoing investigation into illegal online betting platforms.
The ED suspects that Raina may have ties to 1xBet, a high-profile betting app currently under scrutiny. Officials believe he may have endorsed the platform and plan to question him about his involvement.
ED’s Widening Crackdown on Illegal Betting
According to The Indian Express, the ED is actively investigating multiple illegal betting apps. These platforms are accused of duping users and laundering large sums of money. The agency has launched coordinated operations in cities across India to uncover the full network.
Although the ED hasn’t disclosed specific questions for Raina, his name has surfaced as part of the broader probe. Furthermore, just last month, the agency also summoned officials from Google and Meta, aiming to gather details about surrogate advertisements that allegedly promoted these platforms.
Celebrities and Media Under the Scanner
Investigators are tracing financial trails connected to media houses, influencers, and celebrities who have promoted these apps. Many betting platforms frequently rebrand to avoid detection and rely heavily on star power for visibility.
Illegal Betting Apps: A Growing Threat
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, illegal betting apps and websites registered more than 1.6 billion visits from Indian users. Authorities estimate the total market value at around $100 million.
An ED officer told Hindustan Times that nearly 220 million Indians use betting apps, with 110 million being regular users. “These platforms violate multiple Indian laws and official government directives,” the officer stated.
Investigators also believe these apps collectively evade nearly ₹27,000 crore in taxes each year.
Parimatch Case Reveals Money Laundering Trail
In a related investigation, the ED conducted raids on Tuesday across 15 locations—including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Madurai, and Surat. These raids target another betting platform, Parimatch.
That case, registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), stems from a complaint filed by Mumbai Cyber Police in 2024.
Early findings show over ₹2,000 crore flowed into mule accounts. The money was then laundered through cryptocurrency wallets, small ATM withdrawals in Tamil Nadu, and low-value UPI transactions to avoid detection.
What’s Next for Raina?
The ED’s probe into 1xBet and similar platforms is still unfolding. Raina’s questioning could provide insight into how celebrities may have knowingly—or unknowingly—supported the operations of illegal betting networks.
As the investigation expands, more names from the entertainment and sports industries may surface in connection with these platforms.
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