The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has stepped up its investigation into the betting app case, issuing notices to several film personalities, including popular actor Prakash Raj. Prakash Raj appeared for questioning at the ED office in Basheerbagh, Hyderabad, as per the summons received from ED officials. The ED suspects that large-scale money laundering has taken place through the promotion of these apps, which were banned by the Telangana government.
The ED has already sent notices to several actors, including Rana Daggubati, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi, who are accused of promoting betting apps. While Rana Daggubati has sought more time for the hearing due to his film shoot, Vijay Deverakonda is scheduled to appear for the hearing on August 6, and Manchu Lakshmi on August 13. The ED has sent notices to 36 film celebrities so far, and the investigation is ongoing.
The ED's investigation is based on the FIR registered by the Telangana Police, which alleges that many people were attracted to the promotion of betting apps by film celebrities and suffered huge financial losses. Some victims have even taken drastic decisions, and the ED is investigating the role of film personalities in promoting these apps.
The ED's investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen how Prakash Raj's trial will proceed in this case. The ED's notices to Tollywood actors, including Rana Daggubati and Manchu Lakshmi, indicate that the investigation is far from over. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, given the serious allegations against the film personalities involved in promoting betting apps.