Tamannaah Bhatia questioned by ED in Guwahati over HPZ token money laundering case

PTC Web Desk: Actress Tamannaah Bhatia was interrogated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Guwahati on Thursday as part of an ongoing probe into a money laundering case connected to the 'HPZ Token' mobile app. The app is alleged to have defrauded numerous investors by falsely promising Bitcoin mining and other cryptocurrency investments, according to official sources.

Tamannaah Bhatia reportedly participated in an event for the HPZ token and received an appearance fee for her role. However, sources clarified that no substantial evidence of her involvement in the fraud has been found.

The ED had earlier submitted a charge sheet in March, naming 299 entities in the money laundering case related to a cybercrime network. Among those named, 76 entities were under the control of Chinese nationals, with 10  directors identified as being of Chinese origin. Additionally, two other entities were managed by foreign nationals.

The investigation originated from a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the cybercrime unit of Kohima Police. The FIR claimed that the accused had lured investors with promises of high returns through Bitcoin mining and cryptocurrency schemes.

According to the ED, the accused exploited the 'HPZ Token' mobile app as a means to deceive investors. The probe uncovered the use of multiple "shell companies" with "dummy" directors, aiding in the layering and diversion of illicit funds. These accounts were allegedly used to channel money acquired through illegal activities, including online gaming and betting.

Investors were enticed with promises of substantial returns, where an investment of Rs 57,000 was supposed to generate Rs 4,000 daily for three months. However, after initial payouts, the accused began asking investors for additional funds without fulfilling further returns.

The ED's nationwide search operations resulted in the confiscation of immovable properties and bank deposits worth Rs 455 crore.