Lucknow: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its probe into the Rohtas Group for allegedly defrauding investors of more than ₹600 crore, identifying additional high-value properties that are likely to be attached in the next phase of the investigation.
According to official sources, the agency has traced several more assets belonging to the group in Noida, Delhi and Uttarakhand, apart from those already seized. Legal and documentation procedures are currently underway to enable further attachment under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
The ED had on Friday provisionally attached 77 immovable properties linked to the Rohtas Group and its promoter, with a combined market value estimated at around ₹350 crore. These properties were held in the names of the group’s promoter Deepak Rastogi and associated entities, officials said.
Flat-for-investment scheme under scanner
Investigators allege that the Rohtas Group raised large sums from investors by promising residential flats and assured returns, but failed to deliver either possession or refunds. The funds collected were allegedly diverted through a network of shell companies and benami transactions, resulting in significant losses to thousands of investors.
The money-laundering investigation was initiated following multiple complaints and FIRs registered by state police and economic offences units. The ED subsequently registered an enforcement case information report (ECIR) and began tracing the proceeds of crime.
Officials said the modus operandi involved collecting advance payments for housing projects that were either stalled or never completed, while investor funds were routed into land purchases, luxury assets and related-party transactions.
More properties traced
Sources familiar with the probe said the agency has now identified eight to ten additional properties linked to the group, spread across multiple jurisdictions. These assets are currently under verification for ownership structure, valuation and linkage to the alleged proceeds of crime.
“Once the documentation and legal formalities are completed, these properties will also be attached,” an official said, adding that the total value of assets under scrutiny could rise substantially.
Jeweller transaction under ED radar
In a significant development, the ED has also flagged a suspicious land transaction involving a jeweller, which allegedly took place after enforcement action against the Rohtas Group had already begun.
According to investigators, land worth around ₹110 crore belonging to the Rohtas Group was purchased in the names of two companies linked to the jeweller. However, official records reportedly show the transaction value at only ₹40 crore, indicating a substantial understatement.
Officials said documentary evidence and financial trails related to the deal have been secured, and further action under the PMLA is being prepared.
Focus on fund diversion and layering
The ED is examining whether investor funds were laundered through multiple layers of companies before being used to acquire land and other assets at undervalued prices. The agency is also probing the role of intermediaries, financiers and professional facilitators in structuring these transactions.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, with further attachments and possible prosecutions expected as the probe progresses.
Investor recovery process
Officials indicated that attached assets may eventually be liquidated as part of the legal process to facilitate restitution to affected investors, subject to court approval.
The Rohtas Group case is among a series of high-value real estate fraud investigations currently being pursued by central agencies, reflecting increased scrutiny of large-scale investor scams and fund diversion in the sector.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
