Panaji, April 8: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has temporarily seized assets worth approximately ₹17.45 crore linked to the alleged illegal operations of ‘Burch by Romeo Lane’ in Arpora, Goa. This action was taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, by the regional office in Panaji.
The investigation was initiated based on FIRs filed by the Goa Police against Saurabh Luthra and others at the Anjuna and Mapusa police stations. These cases are registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, 2023.
The FIR includes serious allegations of forgery and document manipulation to obtain regulatory approvals, alongside a devastating fire incident that occurred on December 6, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 25 individuals and injuries to many others.
During the investigation, the ED discovered that the establishment was operating without necessary legal approvals, notably lacking a fire No Objection Certificate (NOC).
The agency claims that forged documents, including fake health NOCs and police clearance certificates, were used to obtain licenses and project-related compliance.
Moreover, it is alleged that the partners of the establishment continued business activities despite the absence of necessary licenses and the expiration of their validity. Notably, the business license expired on March 31, 2024, and was not renewed, yet operations continued in violation of regulations.
Financial investigations revealed that between the fiscal year 2023-24 and December 6, 2025, the establishment generated revenue of approximately ₹29.78 crore. This income has been identified as “proceeds of crime” (POC) under the PMLA.
Earlier, on January 23, the ED conducted raids at several locations linked to this case, seizing incriminating documents and digital devices, and freezing bank accounts holding around ₹59 lakh. The investigation is ongoing.
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