ED Raids Actor Dino Morea's Mumbai Residence in Mithi River Case

6 June, 2025

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at actor Dino Morea's Mumbai residence. This action is reportedly in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities concerning the Mithi River rejuvenation project. Further details regarding the specific allegations against the actor or any findings from the raid were not immediately available from the provided source due to access restrictions on the article's content.

Unpacked:

What is the alleged Mithi River desilting scam and how is Dino Morea connected?

The alleged Mithi River desilting scam involves financial irregularities and manipulation of contracts, resulting in a reported ₹65 crore loss to Mumbai's civic body. Dino Morea is linked via UBO Ridez Pvt. Ltd., a company co-owned by his brother, where investigators say Morea exercised operational control and funds from contractors were transferred. The ED is probing possible money laundering involving these transactions.

Who else is implicated in the scam and what roles did they allegedly play?

Alongside Dino Morea, Mumbai Police have named 13 individuals, including contractors and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials. Accused include contractor Ketan Kadam, whose wife co-owns UBO Ridez Pvt. Ltd., and several BMC engineers. They allegedly manipulated tenders and measurements, and facilitated financial transfers to benefit certain firms and individuals.

What is the status of the investigation and what actions have authorities taken so far?

The Enforcement Directorate has raided over 15 premises in Mumbai and Kochi, including those of Dino Morea, his brother, and contractors. The Economic Offences Wing has obtained bank records, recorded about 30 statements, and initiated a forensic audit. Arrests of certain BMC officials and further questioning of Morea and his brother are likely as the investigation progresses.

Why is the Mithi River rejuvenation project important, and what impact could the scam have on the city?

The Mithi River rejuvenation is critical for flood prevention and urban sanitation in Mumbai. The alleged scam, which misallocated substantial funds, could undermine the effectiveness of desilting efforts, raising flood risks during monsoons and eroding public trust in civic projects. It also diverts resources away from essential infrastructure upgrades.

Source