Aryan Khan Case: CBI Targets Wankhede, 25 Cr Shocking Bribe

The Aryan Khan case is back in focus after fresh developments involving Sameer Wankhede. A CBI FIR filed in 2025 has sparked renewed debate over the controversial 2021 cruise ship raid.

The FIR accuses Sameer Wankhede and four others of criminal conspiracy, bribery under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and extortion. These charges are linked to the NCB operation on the Cordelia cruise ship in October 2021.

Aryan Khan was detained during the raid but was later granted bail. He was eventually cleared of all allegations, as his name was not included in the NCB chargesheet.

The case took a new turn when an ‘independent witness’ alleged that officials demanded ₹25 crore for Aryan Khan’s release. Reports claimed that the amount was later negotiated down to ₹18 crore.

Following this claim, the NCB conducted an internal vigilance probe. The findings were then shared with the CBI, which led to the registration of the FIR.

The Enforcement Directorate has also launched a money laundering investigation based on the same FIR. This has increased scrutiny on Sameer Wankhede from multiple agencies.

Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court has granted temporary protection from arrest to Wankhede. The court is currently hearing his plea to quash the FIR, with arguments focusing on lack of evidence.

The next hearing is scheduled for March 24. The outcome may impact both the ongoing ED and CBI investigations, and also shape public perception of the 2021 raid.