ED Seizes Rs 6.27 Crore in Goa Land-Grabbing Investigation

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally seized three immovable properties in Goa, valued at a total of Rs 6.27 crore, as part of an investigation into a land-grabbing case. This action, taken on March 13, 2024, falls under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and is linked to allegations involving Estevan D’Souza and several associates.

Officials from the ED’s Panaji Zonal Office conducted this operation amid ongoing investigations into fraudulent land acquisitions in Goa. These acquisitions allegedly involved the use of forged documents and impersonation of legitimate property owners. The probe was initiated following a First Information Report filed by the Goa Police and the Economic Offences Cell, Goa, citing sections of the Indian Penal Code related to criminal conspiracy, cheating, impersonation, and forgery.

Allegations of Fraudulent Activities

Investigations have revealed that Estevan D’Souza, along with associates Moses Fernandes and Mohammed Suhail, allegedly conspired to unlawfully seize multiple properties across Goa. The accused are said to have impersonated genuine owners and utilized forged sale deeds, fake identity documents, and fraudulent powers of attorney to facilitate illegal property transfers.

Furthermore, officials indicated that the accused induced buyers to purchase these properties by presenting fake sale deeds and agreements, thereby collecting money from unsuspecting purchasers. This pattern of fraudulent activity has raised significant concerns regarding property ownership and land rights in the region.

Previously, the ED had attached assets worth Rs 11.82 crore and Rs 60.05 crore in connection with the same case. With the recent attachment of Rs 6.27 crore, the total value of assets seized now stands at approximately Rs 78.14 crore.

Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigations

A prosecution complaint has already been filed by the ED with the Special PMLA Court in Goa, which has taken cognizance of the matter. Legal proceedings are set to unfold as investigations continue into the extent of the alleged fraud and the individuals involved.

The ED’s actions underscore a growing commitment to combat financial crimes, particularly those linked to land and property fraud. As this investigation progresses, further revelations may emerge regarding the methods employed by the accused and the impact on the affected property owners.