In a startling development, former Bigg Boss 16 contestants Shiv Thakare and Abdu Rozik have been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged drug lord Ali Asghar Shirazi’s Hustlers’ Hospitality Pvt Ltd.
According to a report by the Free Press Journal, Shiv Thakare, a notable figure from the reality television show, was recently questioned by the ED regarding his involvement with Hustlers’ Hospitality, which is under scrutiny for its alleged role in financing startups through illicit means, including narco-funding.
Shiv Thakare’s statement was recorded by the authorities as a witness in the ongoing investigation. Additionally, Abdu Rozik, another contestant from Bigg Boss 16, has also been summoned by the ED to appear before them for questioning.
The investigation has revealed that Ali Asghar Shirazi, the alleged mastermind behind Hustlers’ Hospitality, had provided financial backing to several startup ventures, including those initiated by Shiv Thakare and Abdu Rozik. One such venture was Thakare Chai and Snacks, a food and snack brand, in which Hustlers’ Hospitality reportedly invested a significant amount of money.
Abdu Rozik, on the other hand, ventured into the fast-food startup scene with Burgiir, a burger brand, in collaboration with Hustlers’ Hospitality. It is alleged that substantial investments were made by Ali Asghar Shirazi in Burgiir.
Sources suggest that both Shiv Thakare and Abdu Rozik terminated their contracts with Hustlers’ Hospitality upon learning about Shirazi’s reported involvement in narco-business activities.
During his statement to the ED, Shiv Thakare disclosed that he was introduced to Krunal Ojha, the director of Hustlers’ Hospitality, through a mutual contact in 2022-23. Subsequently, Krunal offered him a partnership deal for Thakare Chai and Snacks, which involved significant financial investment from Hustlers’ Hospitality.
It’s noteworthy that Abdu Rozik had inaugurated his burger restaurant in Mumbai in 2023, attended by several celebrities including Sonu Sood.
The summons by the ED marks a significant turn in the investigation into the alleged money laundering and narco-funding activities associated with Hustlers’ Hospitality Pvt Ltd. As the case unfolds, further details are expected to emerge shedding light on the extent of the alleged illicit operations involving prominent personalities from the entertainment industry.
Sources By Agencies
