The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered a money-laundering operation where funds from a Rapido bike taxi driver's account were allegedly used to finance a lavish wedding in Udaipur. The investigation revealed that over ₹1 crore from the driver's account was used to pay for the destination wedding at the Taj Aravalli Resort in Udaipur.

The ED's investigation into the 1xBet online betting network led them to the Rapido driver. Between August 19, 2024, and April 16, 2025, a staggering ₹331.36 crore was deposited into the driver's account. This unusually large inflow of funds over a short period raised suspicions, prompting the ED to investigate.

The ED found the Rapido driver living in a modest two-room residence in Delhi, working long hours to make ends meet. The driver claimed to have no knowledge of the transactions or the beneficiaries of the wedding. He was unaware that his account was being used for these large-scale transfers.

Investigators believe the driver's account was used as a "mule account". Mule accounts are created or hired, often using fake or proxy KYC documents, to channel illicit funds. Deposits originated from multiple unidentified entities and were quickly diverted to other suspicious accounts. One of the sources of funds was traced to a bank account linked to illegal betting operations.

The wedding in Udaipur is reportedly linked to Aditya Zula, a youth political figure from Gujarat. He may soon be called in for questioning. The ED is mapping the money trail to identify other beneficiaries and possible conduits.

An ED officer highlighted the simplicity and audacity of the method used, emphasizing the dangers of allowing one's account to be used by others. The case illustrates how mule accounts are used to finance luxury events, concealing illicit funds. The ED's findings highlight how individuals are being exploited for financial crimes through mule accounts. The agency is awaiting a response from Rapido.