India’s financial crime watchdog Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has provisionally attached movable and immovable assets worth ₹18.10 crore in connection with an investigation into illegal online betting platform 1xBet under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
With this latest action, the total value of assets attached in the case has risen to approximately ₹37.23 crore, as the probe continues.
How the Alleged Betting Network Operated
According to the agency’s findings, the platform allegedly operated in India without authorization and promoted online betting through multiple mirror websites designed to evade detection.
Investigators say the operation used a concealed payment mechanism involving:
- dynamically generated UPI IDs
- mule bank accounts
- layered transactions
This structure allegedly helped disguise fund flows and conceal the identities of ultimate beneficiaries while laundering proceeds of crime.
Advertising Trail Leads to Digital Platforms
The investigation also uncovered links between promotional campaigns and corporate entities.
The ED stated that Parthtech Developers LLP, operator of cricket platforms CREX and OneCricket, had entered into structured advertising agreements with Switzerland-based Bwise Media AG for the promotion of betting platforms including 1xBet.
Statements recorded under statutory provisions indicated that advertisements for the betting platform were:
- directly booked,
- geo-targeted for Indian audiences,
- and executed via an in-house ad server system known as “Parth Adex.”
Public Advisory Issued
Authorities have issued a public warning urging citizens to remain cautious about unauthorized betting platforms operating in India.
The ED advised the public:
- not to use illegal betting or gambling websites,
- not to transfer funds to suspicious UPI IDs or payment links,
- and not to share personal or banking details on such platforms.
Citizens with information about illegal betting operations or payment channels have been encouraged to report it to enforcement agencies.
Why This Case Matters
The case highlights growing concerns among regulators about digital betting networks using fintech tools to bypass oversight. Investigators say the use of dynamically generated payment handles and layered transactions reflects increasingly sophisticated financial structures designed to obscure money trails.
Financial crime experts note that enforcement agencies are now focusing not only on platform operators but also on:
- payment infrastructure,
- advertising supply chains,
- and intermediary networks.
Investigation Ongoing
Officials confirmed that further investigation is underway and additional attachments or enforcement actions may follow depending on evidence gathered.
Also Read: ED Raids in Mumbai Uncover ₹59 Crore Assets in Probe Into Alleged Fraud at Lodha Developers
