New Delhi, August 13, 2025 : Indian cricket star Suresh Raina has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of an expanding investigation into illegal online betting operations linked to IPL cricket matches. The probe is focusing on Raina’s alleged connections with certain betting apps through endorsements, raising questions about his potential involvement in promoting or financially benefiting from these platforms that are suspected of violating multiple Indian laws, including those under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The ED’s investigation is part of a broader crackdown on illegal betting apps that have surged in popularity across India. Reports suggest that approximately 220 million Indians engage with various betting apps, with an estimated 110 million users regularly active on these platforms. Despite being illegal, these apps have recorded over 1.6 billion visits in the first quarter of 2025 alone, with the market valued around $100 million. However, these platforms are accused of evading taxes worth nearly ₹27,000 crore annually, making them a significant target for law enforcement agencies.

Raina’s name surfaced in the investigation due to endorsements he allegedly provided for some of these betting apps. The ED is scrutinizing whether these endorsements helped promote the illegal betting operations and if Raina received any financial gain from his association with the platforms. Officials are also examining the flow of money linked to these apps to ascertain possible money laundering activities.

The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, enacted in 2002, is the central legislation India uses to combat financial crimes such as money laundering. Under this law, the ED is empowered to investigate suspicious transactions, seize assets bought with illicit funds, and prosecute individuals and organizations involved in these offenses. The act also mandates banks and financial institutions to monitor transactions closely, maintain records, and report any suspicious activities to the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND).

Earlier enforcement actions have included attachment of assets worth over ₹337 crore in connection with IPL betting cases. Recently, the ED attached properties worth ₹219.66 crore linked to the online betting platform Fairplay and its promoters. This reflects the scale at which illegal betting operations have grown and the wealth amassed through such activities.

The IPL, being one of India’s most-watched sporting events, has long been targeted by illegal betting syndicates. The involvement of prominent figures in endorsing betting apps raises concerns about the integrity of the sport and the influence such activities can have on young and vulnerable audiences.

In response to the growing menace, the ED has intensified its efforts to trace and seize assets involved in betting-related money laundering and hold accountable those who facilitate or benefit from these illegal enterprises. Raina’s summons is a significant development in this ongoing probe and signals the agency’s commitment to investigating all links, including high-profile personalities.

Legal experts point out that being summoned by the ED does not imply guilt but indicates that authorities seek clarification or evidence regarding an individual’s role in the alleged offenses. Raina is expected to cooperate with the investigation and provide details concerning his associations with the betting platforms under scrutiny.

This development highlights the Indian government’s firm stance against illegal betting and its determination to clean up the financial ecosystem associated with such activities. The crackdown also serves as a warning to other celebrities and influencers about the risks of endorsing unlawful enterprises.

As the investigation unfolds, more details are likely to emerge regarding the extent of Raina’s involvement and the broader networks operating illegal betting apps across India. Meanwhile, the ED continues its mission to safeguard the country’s financial integrity and uphold the rule of law in the sports and gambling sectors.