BankFraud – Anil Ambani Faces Second ED Questioning in Delhi Case
BankFraud – Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday for a fresh round of questioning linked to an alleged large-scale bank fraud and money laundering investigation. The development marks another significant step in an ongoing probe involving his business group.
Appearance Before Enforcement Directorate
The 66-year-old industrialist arrived at the federal agency’s office in central Delhi at approximately 10:30 am, officials confirmed. Investigators are recording his statement under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which empowers the agency to examine individuals in connection with suspected financial crimes.
This is the second time Ambani has been summoned in the case. He was previously questioned in August 2025 as part of the same investigation. Officials indicated that Thursday’s session is aimed at gathering additional clarifications regarding financial transactions and corporate dealings under scrutiny.
Allegations Linked to Reliance Communications
The case is centered on alleged financial irregularities involving Reliance Communications (RCOM), a company once part of Ambani’s business empire. Investigators are examining claims of a bank fraud estimated at over Rs 40,000 crore. The agency is probing whether funds obtained through loans were diverted or misused, potentially constituting violations under anti-money laundering laws.
Ambani, along with several companies associated with his group, faces accusations related to loan defaults and suspected fraudulent practices. Authorities are reviewing loan documents, financial statements, and inter-company transactions to determine accountability.
Special Investigation Team Formed
In a significant move, the Enforcement Directorate recently set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to consolidate and examine multiple cases connected to Ambani’s group companies. The formation of the SIT followed directions from the Supreme Court, which called for a coordinated review of the allegations.
The SIT is expected to streamline the probe by bringing together various strands of evidence gathered in separate cases. Officials have stated that the objective is to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the alleged financial misconduct.
Attachment of Mumbai Property
A day before Ambani’s latest appearance, the ED provisionally attached a high-value residential property in Mumbai known as ‘Abode.’ The property, valued at approximately Rs 3,716 crore, was attached under provisions of the anti-money laundering law. According to the agency, the action was taken as part of efforts to secure assets believed to be linked to proceeds of crime.
Attachment under the PMLA does not amount to confiscation but restricts the transfer or sale of the property pending further legal proceedings. The matter is subject to adjudication under the statutory process laid down in the law.
Multiple Money Laundering Cases Registered
In submissions made before the Supreme Court, the ED disclosed that it has registered three separate money laundering cases against the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG). These cases relate to alleged bank loan fraud and other financial irregularities.
The agency is examining whether loans obtained from financial institutions were diverted through complex corporate structures. Investigators are also analyzing the role of company executives and related entities in the alleged transactions.
Ambani and his representatives have not publicly commented in detail on the latest round of questioning. Legal proceedings in the matter are ongoing, and further developments are expected as the investigation progresses.
The case continues to draw attention due to the scale of the alleged fraud and its potential implications for India’s banking sector. Authorities have reiterated that the investigation is being conducted in accordance with due process under existing financial crime laws.