Lakshmi Manchu Appears Before ED in Hyderabad Money Laundering Probe

Hyderabad, August 13 (PTI) - Telugu actress Lakshmi Manchu appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Hyderabad on Wednesday, as part of an investigation into a money laundering case connected to illegal online betting and gambling platforms.

Manchu presented herself at the ED's zonal office following summons issued by the federal agency. Last month, the ED had summoned four actors, including Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, and Lakshmi Manchu, to appear on different dates for questioning related to the case.

Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Rana Daggubati have already complied and appeared before the agency.

The actors are being probed for "endorsing" online betting apps that allegedly generated "illicit" funds, according to official sources. The ED has recorded statements from the three actors under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The investigation stemmed from five FIRs filed by state police, prompting the ED to register a case against these actors, alongside other celebrities and social media influencers.

Investigations suggest these individuals received a fee for endorsing online betting apps.

It is alleged that these platforms have generated substantial "illicit" funds, amounting to crores of rupees, through illegal betting and gambling activities, officials said.

In response, Vijay Deverakonda stated that he had endorsed a gaming app, emphasizing that such apps are completely legal and are recognized by the government.

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