The Enforcement Directorate made a significant cash discovery during raids in Odisha's Ganjam district on Friday. Officials recovered approximately Rs 2.5 crore in cash from an almirah during searches at multiple locations.
Illegal Mining Operation Uncovered
These searches targeted individuals connected to illegal excavation and sale of minor minerals. The operation specifically focused on sand and black stone mining activities that have been operating outside legal boundaries.
Criminal Network Involved
ED officials revealed that the premises searched belonged to brokers and persons with serious criminal backgrounds. The agency identified gangsters who allegedly used muscle power to facilitate illegal mining operations across the region.
During the extensive search operation, authorities seized more than just cash. They confiscated high-end vehicles, documents related to immovable properties, and various agreements. Mining leases executed by those involved in the illegal activities were also recovered.
Investigation Background
The ED initiated this investigation after filing an Enforcement Case Information Report. This action followed numerous First Information Reports against the sand mafia engaged in illegal mining and transportation activities.
"The ED is conducting a thorough investigation into the matter of illegal mining in Odisha," stated an official familiar with the case. The agency continues to examine all evidence collected during the raids.
Auditor General Report Connection
These searches occurred shortly after the Comptroller and Auditor General highlighted rampant illegal mining in Ganjam district. The report specifically mentioned illegal activities along the riverbeds of Rushikulya, Bahuda, and Bada rivers.
According to the auditor's findings, these illegal operations caused substantial financial losses to the state exchequer. The ED's recent actions appear directly connected to these documented violations.
The recovery of crores in cash from a single almirah demonstrates the scale of operations involved in illegal mining. Authorities continue their investigation to determine the full extent of this network and identify all participants.
