ED Launches Major Action Against Illegal Coal Trade in Dhanbad

Ranchi, July 29: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has executed one of its largest operations to date against illegal coal mining, smuggling, extortion, and levy collection in Dhanbad, Jharkhand. The agency conducted raids at 31 locations, freezing mutual fund investments worth approximately ₹160 crores and seizing ₹1.02 crores in unaccounted cash. Additionally, documents and digital evidence related to over 200 movable and immovable properties were recovered.

According to a press release issued by the ED on Wednesday, this action took place on July 28 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The raids targeted the premises of coal trader Anil Goyal, LB Singh, Harendra Chauhan, and their associates, relatives, and directors of affiliated companies. The operation also included individuals such as Ganesh Yadav, Pappu Mandal, Rohit Yadav, and Madho Singh.

The ED reported that mutual fund investments linked to LB Singh, totaling around ₹160 crores, have been frozen. During the searches, ₹1.02 crores in cash, numerous digital devices, account-related documents, and other incriminating records were also seized. The agency found documents and digital data related to over 200 properties, including houses and land.

There is suspicion that these assets were acquired using funds generated from criminal activities. This investigation is based on multiple FIRs and charges filed by the Jharkhand police. Allegations suggest large-scale illegal coal mining, smuggling of stolen coal, and extortion under the guise of coal loading in Dhanbad and surrounding areas.

So far, the ED’s investigation has revealed that various individuals and entities were used to legitimize the illicit funds generated from these activities. It is alleged that the money was concealed through the establishment of shell companies and multiple layers of financial transactions, which were then used to purchase movable and immovable assets.

Previously, in November 2025, the ED had also conducted raids on the premises of Anil Goyal, LB Singh, and others associated with them. The agency stated that investigations into the entire network will continue based on the recovered documents, digital evidence, and financial records.