ED Arrests Nowhera Shaik's Assistant Nazneen Ansari in Hyderabad Money Laundering Case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Hyderabad Zonal Office has arrested Nazneen Ansari, alias Abeeda, the personal assistant to Heera Group chief Nowhera Shaik, in connection with a money laundering case in Hyderabad. The arrest took place on Tuesday under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, for her alleged role in defrauding investors.
The central agency initiated its investigation based on multiple FIRs registered by the Telangana Police and Andhra Pradesh Police. These cases were filed against Nowhera Shaik, the Heera Group of companies, and other individuals for allegedly defrauding investors by collecting massive deposits through fraudulent investment schemes.
According to the ED, investigations revealed that Ansari was working closely as Shaik's personal assistant. She was allegedly involved in the possession of attached properties, collecting rent from them, and encouraging new victims to invest in the Heera Group. She is also accused of misguiding various authorities.
The ED further stated that Ansari was in possession of and using the attached properties, which constitute the proceeds of crime. She was reportedly instrumental in facilitating the continued commercial exploitation of these properties. Despite having full knowledge of the ongoing investigation against the Heera Group, she allegedly continued to participate and helped collect investments from various victims.
The material gathered during the probe indicates that Ansari knowingly assisted and was actively involved in activities connected with the possession, use, concealment, projection, and generation of further proceeds of crime. This constitutes the offence of money laundering under Section 3 of the PMLA, 2002.
Furthermore, the ED noted that Ansari was in possession of several attached properties that were slated for auction in compliance with directions from the Supreme Court. Although she was aware of the apex court's orders, she allegedly obstructed the auction proceedings. She reportedly directed the staff working under her to block inspections of the attached properties and to present them as untainted.
The agency emphasized that any attempts to evade legal proceedings, interfere with the investigation, or obstruct the auction proceedings will be dealt with strictly under the law. Further investigation into the matter is currently in progress.
