ED Freezes Properties Worth Rs 7.17 Crore in Goa Linked to Drug Trafficking
Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally seized assets in Goa valued at Rs 7.17 crore in a significant money laundering probe linked to international drug trafficking. This decisive action highlights ongoing efforts against narcotics-related financial crimes.
Key Takeaways
ED has attached properties worth Rs 7.17 crore in Goa.
Investigation linked to international narcotics trafficking .
Initiated under the PMLA following an NCB complaint.
Key accused include Prasad Prakash Walke and others.
ED aims to dismantle financial networks of drug trafficking.
Panaji, February 26 (NationPress) - The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has temporarily attached real estate assets worth around Rs 7.17 crore in Goa, as part of a significant investigation into money laundering associated with global drug trafficking, according to an official announcement made on Thursday.
This operation, executed by the ED’s Panaji Zonal Office, focuses on properties believed to have been acquired through the illegal trade of high-grade narcotics.
The investigation commenced under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), following a complaint lodged by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Goa in March 2021.
Key suspects named in the case include Ugochukwu Solomon Ubabuko, Infinity John (also known as David/Valentine Ejezie), and Prasad Prakash Walke, who are implicated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
The NCB has previously confiscated large amounts of LSD, cocaine, charas, and ganja from locations in Assagao.
Further searches at Prasad Walke's residence also resulted in the discovery of LSD. Walke, known for his repeat offenses, was arrested by the NCB in 2018 and again by the Goa Police Anti-Narcotic Cell in 2023 for involvement with MDMA and Hydroponic Weed. He is currently held in judicial custody.
The ED's investigation has uncovered that profits from the illegal drug trade were funneled into the banking system through significant cash deposits across various accounts held by Prasad Prakash Walke and Sheetal Prasad Walke, as stated by the agency.
The attached properties in Assagao consist of a three-story residential building and two double-story homes, totaling approximately Rs 7.17 crore.
These assets, owned by Walke and his spouse Sheetal, are categorized as 'Proceeds of Crime' sourced from serious offenses. This action is in line with the national initiative 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan'.
The ED is committed to dismantling drug trafficking networks by targeting their financial foundations, emphasizing that addressing the laundering of illicit funds is vital for deterrence.
Ongoing investigations aim to identify more individuals involved in this syndicate.
Point of View
The Enforcement Directorate's decisive action in Goa reflects a strong commitment to combating drug-related financial crimes. This operation not only targets individuals but aims to address the larger issue of narcotics trafficking in our society. The focus on dismantling the financial structures of these networks is crucial for maintaining public safety and integrity.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED's investigation in Goa?
The investigation was initiated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act following a complaint from the Narcotics Control Bureau in March 2021.
What properties were attached by the ED?
The ED provisionally attached a three-story residential building and two double-story houses in Assagao, valued at Rs 7.17 crore.
Who are the key accused in this case?
The main accused include Ugochukwu Solomon Ubabuko, Infinity John, and Prasad Prakash Walke.
What is the significance of the attached assets?
These assets are classified as 'Proceeds of Crime' derived from serious offenses related to drug trafficking.
How does this operation align with national initiatives?
This operation supports the national 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan' objective, targeting drug trafficking and its financial roots.
