The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached immovable properties valued at around Rs 17.45 crore in connection with a money laundering investigation involving the establishment “Birch by Romeo Lane” in Arpora, Goa. This action was taken by the ED’s Panaji Zonal Office under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The probe originated from FIRs filed by the Goa Police against Saurabh Luthra and others under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
The FIRs are related to a tragic fire incident on December 6, 2025, which resulted in 25 fatalities and numerous injuries, as well as allegations of extensive forgery and falsification of documents to obtain regulatory approvals. The Enforcement Directorate’s investigation revealed that the establishment was operated by M/s Being GS Hospitality Goa Arpora LLP without necessary approvals, including a valid Fire NOC. It was also discovered that forged documents, such as a fake Health NOC and a fabricated Police Clearance Certificate, were submitted to authorities to obtain licenses and ensure project compliance.
According to the ED, the partners of the entity, in collusion, continued commercial operations despite the absence and expiration of essential licenses. Notably, the trade license expired on March 31, 2024, and was never renewed, yet the establishment continued to operate in violation of statutory regulations. Financial inquiries indicate that the establishment generated revenues of approximately Rs 29.78 crore between FY 2023–24 and December 6, 2025, which have been classified as “proceeds of crime” under the PMLA. Earlier, on January 23, the ED conducted searches at various premises associated with the entity, resulting in the seizure of incriminating documents and digital devices, as well as the freezing of bank accounts holding around Rs 59 lakh. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing.
