The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at the Raipur premises of Gaurav Mehta in connection with a bitcoin transactions case, sources said. The investigation is part of a broader money laundering probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case has drawn attention due to allegations by BJP leaders accusing NCP MP Supriya Sule and Congress leader Nana Patole of using bitcoins to fund the ongoing Maharashtra Assembly elections .
The BJP also released a purported audio recording claimed to be Sule's voice, which she has denied. Polling for Maharashtra's 288-member assembly is underway, adding urgency to the high-profile investigation. According to ED sources, Mehta is accused of collecting funds worth ?6,600 crore in bitcoin as far back as 2017, luring investors with promises of 10% monthly returns.
The investigation stems from police complaints filed in Maharashtra and Delhi. Officials believe Mehta's activities may be tied to larger financial operations potentially influencing the election process. The ED is expected to intensify its probe into the alleged misuse of cryptocurrencies.
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