Audio Clip on Rs 30 Lakh Surfaces in Goa Housing Project Extortion Case

An alleged audio recording referencing a payment of Rs 30 lakh has emerged in connection with the controversy surrounding The House of Abhinandan Lodha's (HoABL) 'One Goa' project in Karapur, Bicholim. The development comes as Mumbai Police investigate an extortion case linked to the project.

Two individuals, Siddhesh Tari and Pritesh Salgaonkar, have been arrested in connection with the matter. Authorities are examining allegations that money was sought to permit construction work on the project to proceed. Financial transactions reportedly amounting to around Rs 41 lakh are also under scrutiny.

The project had previously drawn protests from residents and activists in the Karapur-Sarvan area. The latest allegations have shifted focus to potential financial dealings tied to those protests and demands to halt work.

According to the purported audio, references are made to Siddhesh and a Rs 30 lakh payment. Phrases such as "You settled Siddhesh's 30" and "You gave Siddhesh 30 lakh" are reportedly audible. The conversation also appears to touch upon a group of roughly 30-35 people, signatures, and efforts to stop the project.

At one point, a speaker allegedly mentions financial strain, including expenses related to a car. Other statements reportedly include a denial of appearing on live streams or videos, with one voice saying, "I didn't even go live anywhere." Another reference speaks to conducting activities peacefully and requesting more time.

The authenticity and context of the recording have not been independently verified. Investigators are expected to examine call records, WhatsApp chats, digital evidence, and financial transactions. The alleged Rs 41 lakh in transactions will be relevant in determining the nature and purpose of any payments, if established.

The probe will also seek to ascertain whether discussions about signatures, protesters, and stopping the project, as heard in the recording, had any direct link to the alleged financial dealings. The claims remain under investigation.