Bollywood Star Sonu Sood Under ED Scanner in High-Stakes Betting App Probe

Bollywood actor Sonu Sood, renowned for his philanthropic endeavors, has once again found himself at the center of a significant financial investigation. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) recently questioned Sood in connection with an alleged money laundering case linked to a suspicious online betting application, casting a shadow over the public figure's financial dealings.

The ED's latest action stems from a case registered in December 2021, targeting a company identified as Vihaan Direct Selling (India) Pvt Ltd and its key directors.

This PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) case was initiated based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Bengaluru Police. The Bengaluru FIR alleged that the company was involved in misusing public funds, which had been collected from a large number of unsuspecting investors through the promotion of an online betting application named "Pari-Match."

Investigators suspect that money collected from these investors was subsequently funneled into various bank accounts.

Crucially, some of these accounts are believed to have direct links to Sonu Sood's financial transactions, raising serious questions about the nature of these associations. The ED's preliminary probe has revealed that the "Pari-Match" betting application was allegedly operated from Russia, with funds being laundered through a complex web of Indian bank accounts to obscure their origin and destination.

This isn't the first time the actor's financial affairs have come under intense scrutiny.

In September 2021, the Income Tax (IT) department conducted extensive searches at premises linked to Sood and his Sood Charity Foundation. That investigation focused on allegations of tax evasion exceeding Rs 20 crore, alongside serious violations of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) norms concerning the collection and utilization of foreign funds by his foundation.

During the IT department's previous probe, officials had claimed to have uncovered evidence suggesting the diversion of funds and suspicious transactions.

While Sood's representatives have consistently maintained that all his financial dealings are transparent and above board, the repeated investigations by central agencies indicate a persistent focus on his financial network and charitable activities. Sood rose to significant prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic for his widespread humanitarian efforts, earning him widespread public admiration, making these ongoing investigations particularly sensitive.

As the ED continues its rigorous investigation, the extent of Sood's involvement and the nature of his links to the alleged betting app scheme remain a central focus.

The outcome of this high-profile PMLA case will undoubtedly be closely watched, as it unfolds against the backdrop of an actor celebrated for his public service.