October 18, 2024**Mumbai** – Bollywood actress Tamannaah Bhatia has been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the ongoing investigation into the multi-crore HPZ Token cryptocurrency scam. The scam, which has ensnared numerous investors by promising high returns through fraudulent Bitcoin mining schemes, has also revealed deeper links to Hyderabad-based companies and Chinese-controlled entities.The HPZ Token scam came to light in October 2021, following a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Cyber Crime police in Kohima, Nagaland. The scam, operated through an app, falsely promised investors astronomical profits from cryptocurrency mining machines. However, investigators soon discovered that the mining machines were non-existent, and the collected investments were diverted for illegal purposes. The ED’s investigation into the scam led to the questioning of actor Tamannaah Bhatia after it was found that she had been paid for a celebrity appearance at an event linked to the HPZ Token company. While the actress has not been accused of any wrongdoing, the ED sought clarification on the payment, which they believe may have originated from scam-related funds. Bhatia’s involvement stems from her promotional work, raising questions about her association with the now-exposed fraudulent enterprise.During the investigation, it was uncovered that the scam had significant ties to companies operating out of Hyderabad, particularly firms linked to Chinese nationals. These entities, registered under names such as **Lillian Technocab Private Limited** and **Shigoo Technology Private Limited**, were found to be collecting large sums from investors, claiming to use the funds for cryptocurrency mining. However, the money was allegedly laundered instead.Further investigation by the Registrar of Companies (RoC) in Hyderabad revealed that several Chinese-controlled companies, including **Tedal & Kata Biotechnology** and **Fengfan India Networking Technology**, were heavily involved in the scam. The ED has identified 76 Chinese-controlled entities and hundreds of individuals implicated in the fraud, with many suspected of having fled the country. Look Out Notices (LOCs) have been issued to track down these individuals.The modus operandi of the HPZ Token scam revolved around a sophisticated app that lured investors into renting cryptocurrency mining machines. Investors were promised lucrative returns, but the entire operation was a front for large-scale money laundering. The fraudulent companies used these investments for purposes entirely unrelated to their claimed business objectives, siphoning off the funds through shell companies and overseas entities.The ED continues to probe the extensive network of individuals and companies linked to the HPZ Token scam, with special focus on the role of Chinese nationals operating in India. Hyderabad has emerged as a critical hub in the investigation, with several firms in the city found to have direct ties to the scam.While Tamannaah Bhatia’s questioning has drawn significant media attention, it is believed that her connection to the case is limited to promotional appearances. The ED’s investigation remains ongoing, with more high-profile interrogations and arrests expected in the coming weeks.