ED Summons Former India Star Suresh Raina in Illegal Betting Investigation
ED questions Suresh Raina over alleged links to banned betting app as part of a money laundering investigation.
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday in connection with a money laundering case linked to banned betting platform.
Officials are recording his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to examine whether his alleged promotions for the platform encouraged people to join the illegal network.
According to investigators, that particular betting platform has been operating in violation of Indian laws and government orders. The ED suspects that endorsements by public figures, knowingly or unknowingly, can boost visibility for such apps and make them seem trustworthy to users.
Raina’s questioning is part of a wider crackdown on betting-related money laundering. In 2024, the ED attached assets worth ₹337 crore in IPL betting cases. By summoning celebrities and influencers, the agency hopes to determine if their involvement forms a link in the laundering chain.
Illegal betting remains a huge concern in India. Data shows around 22 crore people use betting apps, nearly half of them regularly. In just the first quarter of 2025, these platforms saw over 1.6 billion visits. The market is valued at about $100 million, with tax evasion tied to such operations estimated at ₹27,000 crore a year.
