Enforcement Directorate Conducts Searches at Merlin Group Premises
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has carried out searches at seven premises linked to Kolkata-based real estate firm Merlin Group and its promoters.
The action was conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation.
Key Figures Under Investigation
- Sushil Mohta - Promoter of Merlin Group
- Saket Mohta - Promoter of Merlin Group
The ED is probing the role of Sushil Mohta and Saket Mohta in the money laundering case and gathering evidence related to alleged financial and property irregularities.
Association with Senior Political Leaders and Public Officials
Further investigation has found association of Merlin Group with senior political leaders and public officials of the state government.
Their role and financial transactions with the group and promoters are under scrutiny, ED sources informed.
Seized Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
Incriminating digital devices and documents have been seized from the premises and further investigation is ongoing.
Allegations Against Merlin Group Promoters
According to ED, the investigation has revealed that Sushil Mohta, Saket Mohta and other related entities allegedly fabricated and forged documents and fraudulently grabbed various parcels of land including public land too.
Subsequently, the accused people commercially exploited the land by launching large-scale real estate projects.
By projecting themselves as lawful owners on the strength of forged documents, they have induced public to invest substantial sums in their projects, ED probe has revealed.
Strong Action Against Merlin Group Promoters
The ED probe has revealed a pattern of fraud and forgery by Merlin Group promoters, which has led to a strong action against them.
The ED will continue to investigate and gather evidence to bring the perpetrators to justice.