ED Seizes Goa Properties in Major Land Scam Bust

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached properties valued at over Rs 200 crore in Goa, as part of an ongoing investigation into a land scam headed by Rohan Harmalkar. Harmalkar, who unsuccessfully contested the 2022 assembly elections, is accused of leading a criminal syndicate to fraudulently acquire land.

According to the ED, the scandal involved the use of forged documents, such as genealogical records and counterfeit wills, to claim rightful ownership over various properties in North Goa. Harmalkar and his associates allegedly routed illicit funds through bank accounts of family and accomplices to disguise them as legitimate assets.

The ED has issued a provisional attachment order under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and is actively pursuing further assets potentially linked to the crime, aiming to fully expose the extent of this complex laundering operation.

(With inputs from agencies.)