The Economic Offenses Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police has arrested actor Dino Morea in connection with the alleged Mithi River desilting scam. According to a Mid-Day report, he was taken into custody on October 2 after being questioned for roughly eight hours at his residence in Bandra.
What Is the Mithi River Case?
The case concerns contracts awarded for the dredging and rejuvenation of Mumbai's Mithi River, where financial irregularities have been alleged. Investigators are examining the alleged role of contractors, middlemen and civic officials, including how the contracts were awarded and how payments were made. The EOW alleges that the project caused a loss of ₹65.54 crore to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
How Dino Morea's Name Came Up
According to the report, Morea's name surfaced when police examined phone records that showed his contact with individuals involved in the case. The EOW had questioned him and his brother, Santino Morea, in May 2025. Investigators are also looking into financial transactions connected to Santino's company, UBO Rides Private Limited.
The Alleged Money Trail
It is alleged that money was transferred by Ketan Kadam, described as one of the main accused. Kadam was arrested in 2025 and is linked to Voder India LLP, a firm involved in de-silting contracts. Investigators reportedly found that Voder India LLP and UBO Rides operated from the same address near Famous Studios in Worli. Police are also examining alleged financial links between Kadam and the Moriya family.
Background of the Investigation
The EOW formed a Special Investigation Team in 2024 to look into alleged irregularities in river desilting. Several people, including Kadam and Jayesh Joshi, have been arrested, and investigations into the financial transactions and civic contracts are continuing.
Why This Matters
The arrest brings a well-known film personality into a long-running civic corruption investigation that has so far centred on contractors and middlemen. It also keeps attention on how large public works contracts in Mumbai are awarded and monitored. At this stage, the claims are allegations by investigators, and further detail, including any court proceedings or response from Morea's side, will determine how the case develops.