Hyderabad: The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Hyderabad Zonal Office, has arrested Nazneen Ansari alias Abeeda, a close aide of Heera Group founder Nowhera Shaik, in connection with an ongoing money laundering investigation linked to an alleged investor fraud case.
The arrest took place on June 3 under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. According to the ED, the case stems from multiple FIRs registered by Telangana and Andhra Pradesh police against Nowhera Shaik, the Heera Group of companies, and others for allegedly collecting large deposits from investors through fraudulent investment schemes.
The ED said its investigation revealed that Nazneen Ansari worked as the personal assistant to Nowhera Shaik and played an active role in activities related to properties attached by the agency. Officials alleged that she collected rent from attached assets, encouraged fresh investments into the Heera Group, and misled authorities despite being aware of the ongoing investigation.
ED Tightens Probe Into Heera Group Case
According to the agency, Nazneen Ansari knowingly remained in possession of properties identified as proceeds of crime and facilitated their continued commercial use. Investigators alleged that she helped conceal and utilize assets attached under the PMLA while supporting activities linked to the alleged money laundering operation.
The ED further stated that Ansari continued to assist in collecting investments from victims even after enforcement actions began against the Heera Group. Investigators believe she knowingly participated in the possession, use, concealment, and projection of proceeds of crime, bringing her actions within the ambit of money laundering under Section 3 of the PMLA.
Officials also alleged that Ansari obstructed the auction of attached properties that the ED conducted in compliance with directions issued by the Supreme Court. The agency claimed she instructed staff not to allow inspections of attached properties and attempted to portray them as untainted assets.
The ED emphasized that it will take strict action against any individual who attempts to evade legal proceedings, interfere with investigations, or obstruct the auction of attached properties.
The Heera Group case remains one of the most high-profile financial fraud investigations in the region. The alleged scam involves thousands of investors who claimed they were induced to deposit money in investment schemes promising attractive returns.
The ED has already attached and auctioned several assets linked to the case as part of efforts to recover proceeds of crime and provide relief to affected investors. Further investigation is underway to identify additional individuals connected to the alleged money laundering network.
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