Cyberabad police file FIR against 25 celeb for promoting illegal gambling

The Cyberabad police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against 25 celebrities, including prominent Tollywood actors and social media influencers, for allegedly endorsing illegal gambling and betting applications. Among those named in the complaint are actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, Manchu Lakshmi, Praneetha, and Nidhi Agarwal, who are accused of promoting gambling platforms through advertisements and social media promotions.

The FIR was filed following a complaint by businessman P.M. Phanindra Sarma, who alleged that these promotions led to financial distress among the public. The accused are said to have endorsed platforms such as Junglee Rummy, A23 Rummy, Yolo247, Fairplay Live, and Jeet Win through digital advertisements, pop-ups, and sponsored content.

Key Allegations:

• Rana Daggubati & Prakash Raj – Accused of promoting Junglee Rummy via pop-up advertisements.
• Vijay Deverakonda – Allegedly endorsed multiple gambling platforms, including A23 Rummy, Yolo247, Fairplay Live, and Jeet Win.
• Manchu Lakshmi, Praneetha, and Nidhi Agarwal – Accused of promoting gambling apps through social media and digital ads.
• Influencers Harsha Sai, Bayya Sunny Yadav, and Tastyteja – Allegedly promoted gambling platforms through sponsored videos and online advertisements.

Cyberabad Commissioner of Police, Avinash Mohanty, confirmed that an investigation is underway to examine the apps, their origins, and those involved in their promotion.

Authorities allege that these platforms exploit vulnerable individuals, encouraging them to invest in gambling, leading to financial losses. Investigators suspect a larger network of celebrity endorsements and plan to trace financial transactions linked to these promotions.