In a major breakthrough, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has unearthed property documents worth over RS 1,000 crore during extensive searches related to a large-scale land scam in Goa. The raids were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, on April 24 and 25 by the ED’s Panaji branch.

Mastermind Identified in Multi-Crore Scam

According to officials, Rohan Harmalkar has emerged as the key orchestrator behind the fraud. He allegedly conspired with a network of associates to wrongfully acquire land using illegal methods such as impersonation, forged documents, and manipulation of official land records.

Widespread Land Grab in Prime Goa Locations

The investigation revealed that land parcels originally owned by private individuals and family estates were unlawfully sold without the consent of the rightful owners. The fraudulent transactions involved high-value properties located in tourist-favored areas such as Anjuna, Arpora, and Assagao in Bardez Taluka. The manipulation affected several lakh square meters of prime land.

High-Value Property Documents Seized

During the raids, the ED seized forged title deeds and tampered land records. Officials reported that documents related to immovable properties valued at more than RS 600 crore were recovered. The total estimated value of all identified assets exceeds Rs 1,000 crore.

Proceeds of Crime and Benami Investments Detected

Authorities also found evidence of money laundering involving proceeds of the scam. Funds were allegedly funneled through multiple individuals and benami entities, later being invested in real estate, luxury vehicles, and other high-value assets.

Investigation Ongoing

The ED is continuing its investigation to trace the complete money trail, identify other involved individuals, and examine the role of government officials who may have facilitated or overlooked the illegal transfers.