ED Raids Nashik Godman Over Alleged Fraud, Extortion And Laundering Network
ED raids Nashik godman Ashok Kharat over alleged extortion and money laundering activities.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted search operations in Maharashtra on Monday as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation involving self-styled godman Ashok Kharat and his associates. The action was carried out by the agency’s Mumbai Zonal Office-II under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
According to officials, the case originates from an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered on April 6, 2026, following an FIR filed at Sarkarwada Police Station in Nashik district. The allegations include extortion, religious exploitation, and serious criminal offences involving drug-facilitated assault on victims, including women.
Investigators said preliminary findings suggest that the accused operated multiple bank accounts in Nashik through cooperative credit societies using third-party names, while allegedly retaining control over them as a beneficiary. Authorities also noted that the accused’s mobile number was linked to several of these accounts, enabling him to manage financial transactions.
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The ED further alleged that Kharat misled individuals by selling ordinary items as “blessed” objects, falsely claiming they possessed healing and spiritual powers. According to the agency, funds collected through such practices, along with alleged extortion proceeds, were later invested in land acquisitions through his chartered accountant, Prakash Pophale, and members of his family.
Search operations were carried out at 11 locations linked to the accused and his associates, including residential and commercial properties as well as offices of cooperative societies. The raids covered five premises in Nashik, three in Pune, and three in Shirdi, officials said.
Authorities stated that the investigation is ongoing, with further scrutiny of financial records, property transactions, and associated entities expected in the coming days. The ED has not yet disclosed whether any arrests have been made in connection with the case.
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