Enforcement Directorate Conducts Major Raids Across India in Drug Money Laundering Case
The Enforcement Directorate in Panaji executed a significant operation on Friday. They searched twenty-six locations spread across multiple Indian states. This action connects to an alleged international narcotics money laundering case that has drawn serious attention from authorities.
Widespread Searches and Seizures
Officers seized a substantial amount of cash during these raids. They also confiscated various narcotic substances, including charas and other illegal contraband. Incriminating documents and numerous digital devices fell into their hands as well.
In Goa alone, the ED targeted twelve different places. The operation extended far beyond Goa's borders. Teams conducted searches in Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Odisha, and Delhi. All these actions proceeded under the strict provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The Case and Its Origins
The directorate registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Madhupan Sasikala and several others. This report pertains to accusations of illegal international narcotics trafficking. It also involves the laundering of proceeds generated from these criminal activities.
Authorities clarified the basis for these searches. They acted pursuant to the ECIR filed by the ED. This report itself originated from a First Information Report (FIR) registered by Goa police's anti-narcotics cell. The FIR invoked provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. It involved the trafficking of narcotic substances in commercial quantities, indicating a large-scale operation.
Uncovering a Well-Organized Syndicate
Search operations revealed the existence of a highly organized inter-state drug trafficking syndicate. Investigators traced the distribution of narcotic substances on a business-to-business (B2B) basis across multiple states. These states include Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Kerala.
Analysis of seized digital devices and documents provided further evidence. It indicated a large-scale supply of various narcotic substances within India. The list includes MDMA, ecstasy, hash, kush, mushrooms, rashol cream, cocaine, and super cream.
Complex Network and Ongoing Investigation
The investigation revealed clear linkages with suppliers. It also showed the active involvement of multiple associates and facilitators. These individuals played roles in both the narcotics supply chain and the laundering of illicit proceeds, creating a complex criminal network.
The Enforcement Directorate is now in the process of sharing information. They will provide details emerging from this investigation to other relevant law enforcement agencies. This sharing will enable appropriate legal action against all involved parties.
Context of Previous Narcotics Busts in Goa
This major operation follows another significant bust earlier in 2024. The Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) dismantled one of the biggest pan-India LSD rackets in Goa. They arrested a non-Goan individual from Anjuna during that operation.
Police recovered 1,825 LSD blot papers in that case. These had an estimated value exceeding Rs 91 lakh in the international market. The total seizure of drugs was worth over Rs 1 crore. Investigators found that the accused purchased these drugs through the dark web, highlighting the sophisticated methods used in such trafficking operations.
