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ED Freezes ₹523 Crore Linked to WinZO and Gameskraft in Real‑Money Gaming Crackdown

Investigators cite alleged algorithmic rigging, KYC misuse, withdrawal curbs, overseas fund diversion following India’s real‑money gaming ban.

Overview

  • Searches were conducted November 18–22 across Delhi, Bengaluru and Gurugram targeting WinZO, Gameskraft and Nirdesa Networks under the PMLA.
  • About ₹505 crore tied to WinZO was frozen in bank balances, bonds, fixed deposits and mutual funds, with the ED calling these suspected proceeds of crime.
  • The ED alleges WinZO made users play against undisclosed software opponents, restricted withdrawals and retained ₹43 crore that should have been refunded after the August 22 ban.
  • Eight escrow accounts linked to Gameskraft and Nirdesa Networks holding about ₹18.57 crore were frozen, with officials citing user complaints of manipulated outcomes and removed transparency features.
  • Investigators say roughly USD 55 million was parked in a US account under WinZO US Inc and seized devices and data for forensic review as the money‑laundering probe continues.