Mumbai, June 4: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted extensive searches on June 2 and 3 across 21 locations in Mumbai, Surat, Ankleshwar, and Rajkot. This operation is part of an ongoing investigation against an international drug trafficking syndicate led by Salim Ismail Dola, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The search targeted Dola’s organized drug network, encompassing all critical components from start to finish. This includes precursor chemical suppliers, chemical traders, manufacturers/distributors of the synthetic drug mephedrone (MD), hawala operators, and individuals holding assets worth millions acquired through the syndicate’s illicit activities.
The primary goal of the operation was to disrupt the illegal supply chain and money laundering mechanisms, significantly impairing the syndicate’s operational capacity and financial structure.
During the searches, authorities seized and froze approximately ₹1.33 crore in cash, foreign currency, gold bars, and bank balances. Additionally, $2,200 in foreign currency was recovered. Documents related to properties worth millions located in India and Dubai were also found, indicating substantial investments of the syndicate’s illicit earnings in real estate.
This investigation began based on multiple FIRs filed against Salim Dola and others by various law enforcement agencies in Mumbai. These FIRs were related to crimes involving the illegal trafficking of narcotics and psychotropic substances. The ongoing investigation has revealed the existence of a highly organized international criminal network.
This network is involved in the procurement of precursor chemicals, covert production of mephedrone (MD), interstate transportation and distribution of narcotics, international drug trafficking, and the collection of crime proceeds through hawala channels. They also engage in layering, concealing the source of funds, and purchasing movable and immovable assets in the names of associates and others. The ED continues its investigation into this case.
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