The Enforcement Directorate on Friday carried out fresh searches in connection with its ongoing money laundering investigation into Kolkata-based real estate firm Merlin Group and its linked entities, officials told PTI.
The action followed raids conducted on April 8 at premises associated with the group, Merlin Projects Limited, and its promoters, Sushil Mohta and Saket Mohta.
Searches Across Kolkata and North 24 Parganas
Officials said around four to five locations across Kolkata and North 24 Parganas district were being searched under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The fresh action marked a continuation of the agency’s probe into the company and its associated persons.
The case centres on alleged financial irregularities linked to the real estate group. The ED said the investigation is examining the company’s alleged financial links with certain politicians and officials of the West Bengal government.
FCRF Returns With CDPO, Its Premier Data Protection Certification for Privacy Professionals
Agency Alleges Forged Title Chain
According to the ED, the promoters and the company fabricated a false chain of title using forged documents, leading to allegations of land grabbing. The agency further alleged that the accused commercially exploited the land by launching large-scale real estate projects.
The ED said the accused projected themselves as lawful owners on the strength of forged documents and induced the public to invest substantial amounts in these projects. The allegations form a central part of the money laundering probe now underway.
Company Denies Wrongdoing
Merlin Group has said it is cooperating with the Enforcement Directorate and has maintained that all its transactions were transparent. The company has also defended its position on the Merlin Niyasa project under scrutiny, stating that it was developed under a valid agreement and executed in a lawful and transparent manner.
The searches come as West Bengal is scheduled to go to the polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
