ED Targets “300-FIR” Man in Land Mafia Probe
• 300 FIRs, One Man: ED’s Land Fraud Probe
• Shell Companies Exposed in ED Land Scam Raids
• Unearths ₹150Cr Scam in Jaipur Raids
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
Contact: +91 9322755098
- ED Targets “300-FIR” Man in Land Mafia Probe
- • 300 FIRs, One Man: ED’s Land Fraud Probe
- • Shell Companies Exposed in ED Land Scam Raids
- • Unearths ₹150Cr Scam in Jaipur Raids
- ED Intensifies Crackdown on Rajasthan Land Mafia, Unearths Multi-Crore Fraud Network
- Unraveling the Modus Operandi of Land Fraud
- Digital Evidence and Cross-Border Money Laundering Links
- Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigation
On September 3-4, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches in Jaipur against Gyan Chand Agarwal, a history-sheeter with over 300 FIRs. He is accused of a ₹150+ crore land fraud, duping investors by selling the same plots multiple times using forged documents and laundering money via shell companies.
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ED Intensifies Crackdown on Rajasthan Land Mafia, Unearths Multi-Crore Fraud Network
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has executed extensive search operations across Jaipur, targeting properties linked to alleged land mafia kingpin Gyan Chand Agarwal and his associates. Conducted on September 3 and 4 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, these raids mark a significant escalation in probing a sophisticated land fraud network. The action aims to unravel a complex web of financial crimes involving hundreds of crores.
This investigation, spearheaded by the ED’s Jaipur zone, was initiated based on multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) registered by the Rajasthan Police. Agarwal, a history-sheeter facing over 300 FIRs in Jaipur alone, is accused of orchestrating widespread land-grabbing and investment fraud schemes. The scale of the alleged operations suggests a deeply entrenched criminal network operating within the state.
Unraveling the Modus Operandi of Land Fraud
The agency alleges Agarwal’s syndicate employed a consistent modus operandi to dupe investors. He reportedly collected substantial funds from potential investors and corporates for the sale of specific land parcels. However, the ED claims he either failed to transfer the property titles or executed a double-selling scheme by forging documents to sell the same plot to multiple buyers.
This sophisticated fraud has allegedly cheated numerous investors of more than ₹150 crore, as per official estimates. The investigation has revealed that multiple arrest warrants against the primary accused remain in force, highlighting his elusive nature. The findings so far would warrant a deep dive by a Sprouts News Special Investigation Team (SIT) to trace the entire money trail.
Digital Evidence and Cross-Border Money Laundering Links
During the searches, the federal agency secured critical evidence, including unaccounted cash and incriminating documents. These documents pertain to the acquisition of foreign companies and assets, suggesting potential cross-border financial movements. Digital devices such as hard disks and mobile phones were also seized for forensic analysis.
Preliminary examination of seized materials indicates that funds were siphoned abroad through a network of shell companies. These illicit finances were allegedly reinvested into various businesses, including mining operations. The discovery of large-scale tainted transactions points to a well-organized money laundering operation.
Also Read: Shahdol’s Maharishi Vidya Mandir Trapped in Red Tape for Two Decades.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigation
The ED has characterized these searches as a crucial step in dismantling a deep-rooted land scam network in Rajasthan. The agency is investigating possible national and international financial links that facilitated the alleged laundering of proceeds from crime. The case underscores the systemic challenges posed by organized land mafia operations.
The role of a Sprouts News Special Investigation Team (SIT) could be pivotal in understanding the administrative loopholes exploited by such entities. This operation follows a pattern of increased federal action against economic offenses in the region. The investigation remains ongoing, with further arrests and attachments of assets likely as the ED continues to follow the money trail.
