ED Conducts Raids in Punjab Over Guava Orchards Compensation Scam

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out extensive searches across multiple locations in Punjab on Wednesday, targeting a money-laundering scheme associated with the alleged guava orchards compensation fraud. Official sources confirmed that the investigation is linked to the misappropriation of nearly ₹137 crore, which was allocated as compensation for guava orchards on land procured by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA). The operation aimed at unraveling the depth of the financial misconduct involved in this case.

This action by the ED follows the registration of a case based on a First Information Report (FIR) by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau. The FIR detailed the alleged financial irregularities and embezzlement connected with the compensation funds. The Vigilance Bureau’s probe into the scam had previously led to the arrest of several individuals, including officials from the horticulture department, highlighting the extensive nature of the fraud.

The raids targeted the residences and offices of key government officials and private individuals implicated in the scam, marking a significant step in the investigation. The crackdown underscores the ED’s commitment to combating money laundering and financial fraud, especially those involving misuse of public funds and corruption within the government sector.

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