ED Attaches Rs 7.1 Crore Properties in Goa Narcotics Money Laundering Case
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Goa has taken decisive action by provisionally attaching immovable properties valued at over Rs 7.1 crore. These assets belong to Prasad Prakash Walke and Sheetal Prasad Walke, and are connected to alleged money laundering activities stemming from narcotics trafficking. This move underscores the agency's intensified crackdown on financial crimes linked to drug networks.
Investigation Initiated Based on NCB Complaint
The ED launched its investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following a complaint filed by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Goa. The complaint targeted Ugochukwu Solomon Ubabuko, Infinity John, and Prasad Prakash Walke for offences under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This legal foundation highlights the collaborative efforts between enforcement agencies to combat drug-related crimes.
Seizures and Arrests in Drug Cases
In a significant operation, the NCB seized commercial quantities of narcotic substances, including LSD, cocaine, charas, and ganja, from premises located in Assagao, Goa. Subsequent searches at Walke's residential premises led to the recovery of additional LSD. Walke has a history of arrests, having been apprehended by the NCB in 2018 and again by the Goa anti-narcotic cell in 2023 in separate NDPS cases. These cases involved the seizure of substances such as MDMA, ecstasy powder, and hydroponic weed. Currently, Walke is in judicial custody, reflecting ongoing legal proceedings.
Money Laundering and Property Details
The ED investigation revealed that proceeds generated from illicit drug trafficking were systematically introduced into the banking system. This was achieved through substantial cash deposits in multiple bank accounts maintained in the names of Prasad and Sheetal. The attached properties include:
- A three-storey residential house
- A two-floor house
- Another two-floor house
All three properties are situated in Assagao, Goa. According to the ED, these immovable properties are held in the names of Prasad and Sheetal and have been attached because they constitute proceeds of crime derived from scheduled offences under the NDPS Act 1985.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Actions
Investigations are actively underway to identify all beneficiaries and facilitators involved in this network. The ED is also working to trace additional assets generated from these illicit activities. This case highlights the persistent efforts to dismantle drug trafficking operations and their financial underpinnings, with authorities committed to pursuing justice and recovering illicit gains.
