ED Wraps Up Extensive Raids in Karnataka's Bitcoin Money Laundering Case Involving Congress Leaders
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bengaluru, April 21 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) wrapped up its extensive raids on Tuesday, following a 21-hour search and seizure operation tied to an alleged Bitcoin-related money laundering case. These operations were executed at various sites associated with Congress leaders throughout Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru.
Over 100 officers completed their searches at the homes of Congress MLA and Chairman of the Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA), N.A. Haris, alongside his son, Mohammed Nalapad, who is the State President of the Karnataka Pradesh Youth Congress, at around 3 A.M. today.
The ED also targeted the residence of Aqeeb Khan, the grandson of former Union Minister K. Rahman Khan. The raids commenced simultaneously across the state starting at 6 A.M. on Monday.
Additionally, sources have indicated that the ED's investigation is ongoing at the residence of the alleged Bitcoin scam mastermind, Shreekhi. A significant aspect of the ED's probe involves a financial transaction of Rs 4.65 crore between Nalapad and Shreekhi.
It is alleged that Nalapad has funded Shreekhi's extravagant lifestyle. The ED is scrutinizing numerous transactions, including the acquisition of a Porsche car.
ED officials are currently interrogating Shreekhi, considering a bank visit today to verify account details.
Nalapad, Shreekhi, and the son of a senior IPS officer were seen together at a second-hand car dealership on Lavelle Road in Bengaluru, where they attempted to purchase a Porsche. During a test drive, Shreekhi attempted to smoke in the vehicle, leading to a confrontation with the showroom staff. Ultimately, they purchased the car for Rs 57 lakh.
Shreekhi reportedly misused the car, leaving cigarette ash and even setting fire to the car seat with a lighter. They later sold the vehicle back to the same dealership for Rs 47 lakh. This transaction was managed by Nalapad and a partner named Rishab.
In connection with this incident, the CID SIT team had previously interrogated Nalapad in 2024, documenting their statements. Nalapad now faces scrutiny for allegedly facilitating Shreekhi's financial activities. Several past transactions, including the Porsche purchase, are currently under the ED's investigation, sources revealed.
According to official reports, the ED conducted its operations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) at 12 locations across Karnataka, with robust security provided by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.