New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at six locations in West Bengal and four in Delhi on Thursday in connection with a coal smuggling and money laundering case. The agency has alleged that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee interfered with the investigation.
According to the ED, an organised coal smuggling syndicate led by Anup Maji illegally extracted coal from Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) leasehold areas in West Bengal. The coal was then sold to factories and plants across districts including Bankura, Bardhaman, and Purulia. A significant portion of this illegally mined coal was reportedly supplied to companies under the Shakambhari Group.
The investigation further revealed close links with hawala operators. Statements and documentary evidence confirmed that the proceeds from coal smuggling were layered through hawala networks to conceal their origin.
There are indications that the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) received assistance in transactions involving crores of rupees through this network. The searches conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on January 8, 2026, identified individuals involved in coal smuggling, hawala operations, and handlers.
During the raids, the situation turned tense at some sites. The ED accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the West Bengal Police of obstructing the investigation, including the removal of physical documents and electronic evidence from certain locations.
The Enforcement Directorate clarified that the actions were based entirely on evidence and did not target any political party or institution. It emphasized that the raids had no connection with any upcoming elections and were part of routine legal procedures against money laundering.
The ED had registered the Economic Crime Investigation Report (ECIR) on November 28, 2020. The ongoing investigation is based on the First Information Report (FIR) number RC0102020A0022 lodged by the CBI in Kolkata on November 27, 2020, against Anup Maji and others. Authorities indicated that several arrests could be made soon in connection with the case.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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