ED Search Operations on Patna-Based Contractor: Cash, Digital Evidence Seized.

Headnote:

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted coordinated search operations across four cities—Ahmedabad, Surat, Gurgaon, and New Delhi—in connection with a money laundering probe involving Patna-based contractor Rishu Shree. The searches led to the seizure of approximately ₹33 lakh in cash, digital devices, diaries, and incriminating documents. The investigation arises from allegations that the contractor, in collusion with government officials, manipulated tender processes across multiple Bihar government departments. ED had earlier seized ₹11.64 crore in cash and provisionally attached assets worth ₹68.09 crore belonging to the accused and his associates. Investigation remains ongoing.

Background:

ED initiated its investigation based on an FIR filed by the Special Vigilance Unit (SVU), Bihar, against contractor Rishu Shree and others for alleged corruption, tender manipulation, and collusion with government officials.

The accused’s firms reportedly operated as contractors/subcontractors in numerous government departments, including:

Water Resources, Health, PHED, Urban Development, BUIDCO, Education, Building & Construction, and Rural Works Department.

Prior ED searches in Patna targeted travel agents and residences of several government officials, leading to the seizure of ₹11.64 crore in cash alongside various incriminating documents and digital evidence.

On 01.08.2025, ED provisionally attached assets worth ₹68.09 crore belonging to Rishu Shree, his family, and related entities.

The present operation on 25.11.2025 covered nine locations across four major cities, resulting in the recovery of new evidence and cash of about ₹33 lakh.

ED’s Observations / Findings:

The searches revealed fresh incriminating material, including digital devices, diaries, and documents that point to large-scale financial irregularities and potential laundering of illicit proceeds.

Evidence indicates an alleged nexus between the contractor and various government officials, enabling the manipulation of tender processes for personal and unlawful gains.

The seized material is being examined to trace fund flow, identify beneficiaries, and establish proceeds of crime.

The ED noted that prior seizures and attachments indicate a pattern of systematic diversion of public funds through collusive contracting practices.

Legal Provisions Involved:

Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) – search, seizure, provisional attachment, and investigation into proceeds of crime.

FIR filed by Special Vigilance Unit (SVU), Bihar – predicate offence forming the basis for PMLA proceedings.

Status

Further investigation is underway to establish the full extent of money laundering, involvement of public officials, and the flow of illicit funds.

Citation: Press Release – Directorate of Enforcement (ED)

Case: ED Investigation against Patna-based Contractor Rishu Shree

Authority: Directorate of Enforcement, Patna Zonal Office

Date of Release: 26 November 2025

Date of Search Operations: 25 November 2025

Statute Invoked: Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA)