Did the ED Uncover a Major Land Grabbing Scandal in Goa and Hyderabad?
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Synopsis
The recent search operations by the ED across Goa and Hyderabad have unveiled a massive land grabbing scandal, involving luxury vehicles and substantial cash. The investigation is set to expose a wider network of illegal activities. What does this mean for Goa’s real estate landscape?
Key Takeaways
- The ED executed search operations at 13 locations in Goa and Hyderabad.
- Luxury vehicles and significant cash were seized during the investigation.
- Illegal land grabbing has been a persistent issue in Goa.
- The total market valuation of the implicated land exceeds Rs. 1,200 crore.
- Ongoing investigations may reveal a larger network involved in these activities.
New Delhi, Sep 10 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Panaji Zonal Office has executed search operations at 13 residential and commercial locations in Goa and Hyderabad concerning the case involving Yeshwant Sawant and others.
The searches, conducted on September 9-10, relate to the illegal appropriation of Communidade lands in Goa under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The ED launched its investigation following an FIR filed by the Goa Police under various sections of the IPC, 1860, regarding the illegal acquisition of land belonging to the Communidade of Anjuna.
According to the ED, the “investigation and search operations indicated that the accused had unlawfully mutated over 3,50,000 sq. meters of land situated in prime areas of Goa, such as Anjuna and Assagaon, by using forged historical documents submitted to relevant authorities for the mutation process.”
Moreover, a part of these properties was sold to multiple buyers, generating additional Proceeds of Crime (POC) amounting to crores of rupees.
“The total market value of the illegally seized land parcels is estimated to surpass Rs. 1,200 crore,” the ED stated in its press release.
During the search operations, cash totaling approximately Rs. 72 Lakh was confiscated, along with seven luxury vehicles, including a Porsche Cayman, BMW 650 L., Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz, BMW M5, and Audi A-6.
Numerous bank accounts and fixed deposits linked to the individuals involved in these illicit transactions have also been frozen.
Incriminating documents pertaining to these land deals were also recovered and seized during the operation.
“The ongoing investigation may unveil a broader network involved in illegal land grabbing throughout Goa,” the agency noted.
Further inquiry is underway.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the potential implications of the ED's findings. This case not only highlights the ongoing issues of land grabbing in Goa but also underscores the need for stringent measures against corruption. The agency's efforts are vital in reinstating public trust and ensuring accountability among those in power.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED's investigation?
The ED's investigation was initiated based on an FIR filed by the Goa Police regarding illegal land acquisition belonging to the Communidade of Anjuna.
How much land is involved in the case?
The investigation indicates that over 3,50,000 sq. meters of land in prime areas of Goa are involved.
What luxury items were seized during the operations?
During the search, the ED seized cash amounting to approximately Rs. 72 Lakh and seven high-end vehicles.
What is the estimated value of the seized land?
The total market valuation of the implicated land parcels is expected to exceed Rs. 1,200 crore.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes, further investigations are in progress to uncover a broader network involved in illegal land grabbing.
