Who is Anurag Dwivedi? The UP YouTuber under ED’s scanner for alleged money laundering

Anurag Dwivedi, a YouTuber and online influencer from Uttar Pradesh, has recently come under the radar of the Enforcement Directorate. The central agency conducted searches at his premises in connection with an alleged money laundering case linked to illegal online betting platforms.

The action has brought public attention to Dwivedi’s background, his online work, and the source of his income.

An online influencer from Uttar Pradesh

Anurag Dwivedi is based in the Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh. Officials say he used his online presence to promote betting and gambling apps. Investigators allege that his content encouraged users to join online betting platforms, which are illegal in India.

Why the Enforcement Directorate took action

As reported by the Times of India City Desk, on Wednesday, the Enforcement Directorate carried out searches under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The probe is linked to suspected illegal earnings from online betting activities.

During the searches, officials seized luxury cars from his residence. These included a Lamborghini Urus, a Ford Endeavour, a Mahindra Thar, and a Mercedes. Officials said the vehicles were suspected of having been bought using illegal income.

How the money is being traced

As per the report, officials claim Dwivedi tried to show assets bought with illegal money as legitimate. His residence was searched to identify properties linked to suspected proceeds of crime. Transactions linked to his companies and family members are also being examined.

Wider network under probe

According to the Times of India report, the investigation has expanded beyond Uttar Pradesh. West Bengal Police conducted searches in Siliguri and named other accused, including Sonu Kumar Thakur and Vishal Bhardwaj. They are alleged to have used mule bank accounts, Telegram channels, and other digital platforms to run online betting operations.

Allegations of overseas assets

Investigators have also alleged that Dwivedi promoted illegal betting apps and received payments through hawala operators, mule accounts, and cash middlemen. He is accused of using illegal earnings to buy properties abroad, particularly in Dubai.

What happens next

The Enforcement Directorate is now working to identify others linked to the alleged network, calculate the total illegal income, and trace where the money was invested. Officials have indicated that further action and asset seizures may follow as the investigation continues.
Thumb image: Instagram/ Anurag Dwivedi