ED searches 9 locations in UP linked to YouTuber in online betting probe

On Wednesday, the ED had conducted searches at nine locations in Lucknow and Unnao linked to Dwivedi. “During the raids, the ED have seized several incriminating documents, digital records, and details of overseas investments. Four high-end vehicles, including a Lamborghini Urus valued at over Rs 4.18 crore, a Mercedes-Benz, a Ford Endeavour, and a Mahindra Thar, were also seized as being part of proceeds of crime,” the spokesperson said.

According to ED, the investigation stems from an FIR registered by the West Bengal Police for offences of cheating, forgery, and operating unlawful betting portals. “The ED later recorded an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) on the basis of the same FIR, unraveling a digital betting network allegedly run from Siliguri by accused persons including Sonu Kumar Thakur and Vishal Bhardwaj. The network reportedly used mule bank accounts, Telegram groups, and encrypted digital platforms to conduct online gambling activities,” a ED spokesperson said.

“Dwivedi, who commands a significant following on social media for sports and gaming-related content, actively promoted these illegal betting applications through videos and online campaigns. He received substantial payments through hawala operations, mule accounts, and cash deliveries routed via intermediaries. Large sums were credited to bank accounts belonging to his companies and family members without any legitimate business justification,” said the spokesperson.

Following the money trail, the agency found that Dwivedi had allegedly invested in high-value real estate properties in Dubai using funds generated from the illegal network. “Evidence recovered indicates that Dwivedi purchased immovable assets abroad through hawala channels. He left India after the transactions and is currently residing in Dubai. Multiple ED summons have been issued in recent months, but he has failed to appear before the ED,” the spokesperson said.