New Delhi, November 2, 2023: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday raided six casinos in Goa in connection with a money laundering case. The raids were conducted at casinos in Panaji, Porvorim, and Candolim.
The ED is investigating a case of money laundering involving the proceeds of crime generated through illegal gambling activities. The agency suspects that the casinos were being used to launder money generated through illegal activities such as drug trafficking and hawala transactions.
The ED is probing allegations that the casinos were involved in the parking of “tainted” funds worth ₹50 crore, which gullible investors duped.
“We are investigating a case of money laundering involving the proceeds of crime generated through illegal gambling activities,” an ED official said. “We suspect that the casinos were being used to launder money generated through illegal activities such as drug trafficking and hawala transactions.”
The ED has seized several documents and electronic devices from the casinos. The agency is also questioning several people in connection with the case.
Casino Operators Deny Any Wrongdoing
The casino operators have denied any wrongdoing. They have said that they are cooperating with the ED investigation.
“We are cooperating fully with the ED investigation,” a spokesperson for one of the casinos said. “We are confident that we will be able to clear our name.”
The Impact of the Raids
The raids have sent shockwaves through the Goa casino industry. The industry is a major source of revenue for the state government. The raids have also raised concerns about the safety of tourists visiting Goa.
“The raids have sent a negative message to tourists,” a travel agent said. “Tourists may now be hesitant to visit Goa if they feel that the casinos are not safe.”
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