**Mahesh Babu Summoned by ED in Money Laundering Investigation**
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has called upon actor Mahesh Babu for questioning on April 27 as part of an investigation into a money laundering case linked to Hyderabad-based real estate companies, Sai Surya Developers and the Surana Group. The actor is being scrutinized for his involvement in promoting these firms’ controversial real estate projects.
According to ED sources, Mahesh Babu received a total of Rs 5.9 crore for endorsing Sai Surya Developers, with Rs 3.4 crore processed through official banking channels and an additional Rs 2.5 crore allegedly paid in cash. Investigators are concerned that this cash may be connected to illicit proceeds from real estate fraud.
On April 16, the ED’s Hyderabad Zonal Office conducted searches at four locations in Hyderabad and Secunderabad under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. These raids resulted in the seizure of incriminating documents and unaccounted cash transactions amounting to approximately Rs 100 crore, including Rs 74.5 lakh in cash from the Surana Group’s premises.
The investigation is rooted in multiple FIRs filed by Telangana Police against Narendra Surana, director of Bhagyanagar Properties Limited, K Sathish Chandra, proprietor of Sai Surya Developers, and others. They are accused of defrauding homebuyers by collecting substantial advances for plots without fulfilling their commitments.
The ED’s findings indicate that the accused orchestrated fraudulent schemes involving unauthorized land layouts, selling the same plots to multiple buyers, accepting payments without proper agreements, and making false promises regarding plot registrations. These actions have resulted in significant financial losses for numerous investors. The investigation highlights a pattern of deliberate and dishonest intent, leading to public deception and the generation of illicit funds, which were subsequently laundered for personal and corporate gain.
**FAQ**
*What is the reason for Mahesh Babu’s summons by the ED?*
Mahesh Babu has been summoned by the ED as part of an investigation into a money laundering case involving real estate firms, where he is accused of promoting controversial projects and receiving substantial payments, some of which may be linked to illicit activities.
