ED Raids 7 Locations in Delhi and Goa Over ₹155 Crore Bank Fraud, Alleged Links to AAP Leaders Under Scanner

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday carried out extensive search operations at seven locations in Delhi and Goa in connection with an alleged ₹155 crore bank fraud and money laundering case. The raids were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), with investigators focusing on suspicious financial transactions and alleged misuse of banking channels.

According to officials familiar with the investigation, the case is linked to an alleged large-scale financial irregularity involving fraudulent loans, shell companies, and diversion of funds. Authorities suspect that the accused individuals used multiple entities to route money and conceal the origin of the proceeds generated from the alleged fraud.

Sources stated that the ED teams searched residential and commercial premises belonging to businessmen, financial operators, and individuals believed to have close associations with political figures linked to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Electronic devices, financial records, property documents, and digital transaction data were reportedly seized during the raids for forensic examination.

Investigators are examining whether the alleged proceeds of crime were laundered through real estate investments, offshore transactions, or layered bank accounts. Officials are also scrutinizing communication records and company structures to identify the broader network involved in the case.

The central agency launched the probe after taking cognizance of an FIR and charge sheet filed by other investigative authorities related to the alleged bank fraud. Preliminary findings reportedly indicated irregularities in loan approvals and diversion of funds through dummy firms and associated accounts.

Political reactions quickly followed the raids, with opposition leaders accusing the central government of targeting political rivals ahead of key electoral developments. Meanwhile, BJP leaders defended the ED’s action, stating that investigative agencies are duty-bound to act against corruption and financial misconduct irrespective of political affiliations.

The Aam Aadmi Party has not officially commented in detail on the latest searches, but party insiders reportedly dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. Several leaders have previously accused central agencies of selective action against opposition parties.

Financial crime experts note that the ED has intensified its crackdown on economic offences and money laundering networks in recent years, particularly in cases involving high-value frauds, benami assets, and cross-border fund movements. The agency has increasingly relied on digital financial tracking and forensic audits to uncover complex laundering operations.

The investigation is expected to continue over the coming weeks, with officials likely to summon key suspects and examine additional banking and corporate records. Further action, including arrests or attachment of assets, may follow depending on the evidence collected during the raids.