Fmr corporator questioned by ED

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday questioned former Vasai Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) corporator Sitaram Gupta regarding his alleged role in the construction of 41 illegal buildings on a 60-acre plot earmarked for public projects in Vasai East.

- Abhishek Sharan

MUMBAI:

Gupta's statement was recorded under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the process will continue on Wednesday, said sources in the ED's Mumbai unit, which is conducting a money laundering probe in connection with the 41 illegal buildings.

According to the ED, Gupta is one of the perpetrators of large-scale illegal constructions in Vasai-Virar since 2009. The agency had conducted searches at 13 locations in Vasai-Virar and Hyderabad last week, which had led to the seizure of cash and valuables worth ₹32.29 crore, including ₹44 lakh from Gupta's Nalasopara residence.