Actor Prakash Raj appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Hyderabad on Wednesday, July 30, for questioning in connection with a high-profile money laundering investigation related to illegal online betting platforms. The actor, known for his versatile roles across South Indian cinema, reached the ED’s zonal office to respond to summons issued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case involves several celebrities who allegedly endorsed betting apps like Junglee Rummy, JeetWin, and Lotus365 — platforms now under scrutiny for generating illicit funds through unauthorized gambling operations.

In addition to Prakash Raj, the ED has summoned other prominent South Indian actors including Rana Daggubati, Vijay Deverakonda, and Lakshmi Manchu. As per the official timeline, Daggubati was initially scheduled to appear on July 23 but sought a new date and has been rescheduled for August 11. Vijay Deverakonda is to appear on August 6, followed by Lakshmi Manchu on August 13. The ED is recording statements to determine the actors’ level of involvement, particularly whether their endorsements contributed to the laundering of illegally acquired funds or whether they were unaware of the apps’ underlying operations.

Sources close to the investigation claim that the celebrities may have received endorsement fees while unknowingly promoting platforms that were conducting unlawful betting activities. The ED registered its case after reviewing five FIRs filed by state police agencies, highlighting a network of gambling operations that have siphoned off crores of rupees. Some celebrities reportedly told authorities they were unaware of the true nature of the apps. The probe has stirred significant attention across the film industry and legal circles, raising broader questions about celebrity accountability in digital endorsements and the rising misuse of online platforms for financial crimes.