Robin Utthapa issues a statement after his arrest warrant

An arrest warrant was issued against Utthapa in an EPF deposits fraud case.

Robin Uthappa has now come forward to issue his statement after an arrest warrant was issued for him in the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits fraud. The warrant was issued by Shadakshara Gopala Reddy, regional provident fund commissioner—II, and recovery officer K R Puram. They claimed that Rs 23,36,602 is to be recovered from Uthappa, the defaulter, as per PTI.

Robin Uthappa states after an arrest warrant gets issued against him.

On Saturday, an arrest warrant was issued against Robin Uthappa in connection with alleged fraud related to Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits. The former cricketer has now posted a statement on X. He stated, “In light of recent news of the PF case against me, I would like to provide some clarification with regards to my involvement with Strawberry Lencería Pvt. Ltd., Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., and Berryz Fashion House.” He added, “In 2018-19, I was appointed as a director in these companies due to my financial contributions to them in the form of loans. However, I did not have an active executive role, nor was I involved in the day-to-day operations of the businesses. Given my demanding schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator, neither did I have the time nor expertise to participate in their operations. In fact, I do not play an executive role in any other companies I have funded, till date.”

“Companies failed to repay the funds I lent them.”

Robin Uthappa further stated, “Regrettably, these companies failed to repay the funds I lent them, leading me to initiate legal proceedings, which are currently sub judice. I also resigned from my directorships several years ago. When the Provident Fund authorities issued notices demanding payment of dues, my legal team responded, highlighting that I had no role in these companies and provided documentation from the companies themselves confirming my lack of involvement. Despite this, the Provident Fund authorities have continued with proceedings, and my legal advisors will take the necessary steps to resolve this matter in the coming days. I would also like to urge the media to kindly present complete facts and to verify the authenticity of the information being shared.”