The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has once again summoned Bollywood actor Dino Morea for questioning in connection with the ongoing investigation into the ₹65 crore Mithi River desilting scam. This marks the second time Morea has been called in by the ED, following his initial questioning on June 12, 2025. The ED is seeking further clarification on certain financial transactions and probing whether Morea or his family members benefited from the alleged misappropriation of funds.

The Mithi River, a crucial natural stormwater drainage channel for Mumbai, has been plagued by pollution and neglect over the years. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) was tasked with desilting the river to improve its flow and prevent flooding. However, allegations of irregularities in the awarding and execution of desilting contracts have surfaced, leading to a probe by the ED.

The ED's investigation is based on a case filed by the Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW), which registered an FIR against 13 individuals and entities for allegedly causing a wrongful loss of ₹65.54 crore to the BMC. The EOW's investigation revealed a suspected cartel formed by contractors, middlemen, and BMC officials to manipulate the tender process for desilting contracts. This manipulation allegedly resulted in inflated rates for the desilting work, causing undue gains for the contractors and financial losses to the public.

Dino Morea's connection to the case stems from his alleged association with Ketan Kadam, a key middleman implicated in the scam. Kadam is believed to have acted as an intermediary for Vodar India Ltd. Reports suggest that Morea and Kadam have a long-standing association of approximately 25 years. The probe agencies are scrutinizing several monetary transactions between Morea and Kadam, amounting to ₹14 to 18 lakh. Further complicating matters, Kadam's wife and Morea's brother, Santino, serve as directors in the same company.

On June 6, 2025, the ED conducted searches at multiple locations across Mumbai, Kochi, and Thrissur, including Morea's residence in Bandra. The raids aimed to gather evidence related to the alleged money laundering and diversion of public funds. During the search, ED officials examined financial documents and digital transactions to ascertain Morea's potential involvement in influencing contractors.

The ED is investigating whether the Morea brothers were directly involved in the alleged fraud or if they benefited from the proceeds of the crime generated by individuals and entities under investigation. Dino and Santino Morea have denied all allegations of their involvement in the Mithi River desilting scam.

The Mithi River scam highlights the deep-rooted corruption within the BMC and the manipulation of public funds for personal gain. The ED's investigation aims to unearth the truth and bring those responsible to justice. The summoning of Dino Morea for further questioning underscores the ED's commitment to thoroughly investigate all angles of the case and determine the extent of his involvement.