The controversy surrounding betting apps has sparked a major sensation across both Telugu states. Cases have been registered against influencers and actors at the Panjagutta and Miyapur police stations. While 11 influencers were booked at Panjagutta, 25 individuals faced cases at Miyapur.
Amid this crackdown, the police have urged victims who lost money through betting apps to come forward and report their grievances. In one such case, a man who lost approximately ₹80 lakh in betting games approached the Panjagutta police station seeking assistance.
Speaking to RTV, the victim disclosed that he was introduced to the betting platform through actor Balakrishna’s Unstoppable show. He stated that he downloaded the ‘Fun 88’ app after seeing it promoted on the show and, over the course of a year, lost all his earnings.
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The victim, a resident of Kavalaadivali village in AS Peta Mandal, Nellore district, recounted his ordeal:
“I initially worked as a laborer and later established a tent house business, gaining financial stability and recognition in neighboring villages. However, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted my business, forcing me to borrow Rs 15 lakh due to health-related expenses. After the pandemic, I took up work as a labor contractor. It was during this period that I came across the ‘Fun 88’ betting app on Balakrishna’s Unstoppable show, where it was promoted as a platform offering multiple games and rewards.
Believing it to be a profitable opportunity, I invested Rs 10,000 and initially received Rs 18,000 in returns. Encouraged by early gains, I continued playing and managed to earn around Rs 3 lakh in one and a half months. However, over time, I began losing significant amounts, ultimately accumulating debts of nearly Rs 80 lakh,” he revealed.
Authorities have reiterated their warning against engaging with illegal betting platforms and have urged affected individuals to report financial losses to law enforcement agencies.
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