Dubai Cruise Wedding Triggers Raids On Properties Of Fantasy Sports Promoter In India

A high-profile destination wedding aboard a cruise ship in Dubai has placed an Indian fantasy sports promoter under scrutiny back home. Enforcement authorities have conducted searches at multiple locations linked to him, according to Indian media reports.

The individual, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Unnao district, hosted his wedding in Dubai earlier this month, reportedly on a ship, and flew about 20 guests from his village to the UAE at his own expense. Days later, India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted coordinated searches at his residence and other associated premises.

As reported by Hindi daily Dainik Jagran, the promoter is the son of a medical store owner and is known as a content creator and brand promoter for major fantasy gaming platforms. Investigators are examining financial transactions linked to online promotions and affiliate earnings.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

According to local media reports, a 16-member ED team arrived in a convoy of vehicles on Tuesday morning and conducted searches at the individual's residence in his native village, as well as other locations in Unnao and nearby areas. Officials also searched the residence of a close relative. The individual was not present during the operation. Khaleej Times is withholding his name for legal reasons.

The searches reportedly lasted several hours. During this time, officials examined documents related to assets and financial transactions. Authorities have not disclosed whether any cash or valuables were seized.

On Thursday (December 18), the Enforcement Directorate attached four vehicles, including a Lamborghini and a Mercedes, from a residence in Nawabganj, Unnao, linked to the fantasy sports promoter under investigation.

Investigators are probing whether large sums earned through fantasy sports platforms, largely via promotions and app-based referrals, were routed or invested in compliance with financial and regulatory norms.

MENAFN19122025000049011007ID1110502131