The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its action against Unnao-based YouTuber Anurag Dwivedi in a money laundering case linked to illegal online betting. During recent search operations, the ED seized two more high-end luxury cars, further tightening the noose around the social media influencer. The agency has also uncovered assets worth several crores and a network of suspicious financial transactions.
In an official statement issued on Monday, the ED said that searches were conducted on December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026, at nine locations spread across Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, Lucknow and Varanasi. During these raids, the agency seized a Land Rover Defender and a BMW Z4 belonging to Anurag Dwivedi. According to investigators, the vehicles were allegedly purchased using proceeds generated from illegal online betting activities.
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Four Luxury Vehicles Already Seized Earlier
ED officials said this is not the first major recovery in the case. In an earlier operation carried out in the third week of December, the agency had seized four luxury vehicles, including a Lamborghini Urus, a Mercedes-Benz, a Ford Endeavour and a Mahindra Thar. In addition to the vehicles, ₹20 lakh in cash was also recovered during that phase of the investigation. The successive seizures indicate that the agency is systematically tracing and dismantling the accused’s financial network.
Accused Staying in Dubai, Ignoring Summons
According to the ED, Anurag Dwivedi is currently residing in Dubai and has failed to appear before the agency despite multiple summons. Officials have noted that his continued absence amounts to non-cooperation with the investigation. The agency believes that Dwivedi’s overseas stay and repeated evasion of questioning have added to the seriousness of the case.
Probe Originated From West Bengal FIR
The money laundering probe was initiated on the basis of an FIR registered by the West Bengal Police, which contained allegations of cheating, illegal online betting and organised criminal activity. Acting on the predicate offence, the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and began tracking the flow of funds and assets linked to the alleged crime.
Alleged Promotion of Illegal Betting Platform
Investigators allege that Dwivedi actively promoted an illegal online betting platform operated from Siliguri. Using his social media reach and digital presence, he allegedly helped expand the platform’s user base. The ED claims that the YouTuber received substantial payments in return for these promotional activities, which later formed part of the laundered proceeds.
Money Routed Through Hawala and Mule Accounts
The ED’s investigation has further revealed that the earnings from illegal betting were laundered through a hawala network and mule bank accounts. These accounts were allegedly used to layer and disguise the proceeds of crime, making it difficult to trace the original source of funds. Several suspicious bank accounts and transactions have been identified and are currently under detailed scrutiny.
Digital Influence and Criminal Proceeds
Officials said the case highlights a growing trend where digital influence and social media popularity are being exploited to generate and legitimise illegal income. The misuse of online reach for unlawful activities, they noted, poses a significant challenge for enforcement agencies in the digital age.
The ED has indicated that in the coming days, it may move towards further attachment of properties, deeper examination of digital evidence, and enhanced international cooperation to secure the accused’s presence. The agency has made it clear that any attempt to evade the law will be dealt with firmly and that every link of illegal earnings will be identified and seized.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
