Massive ED Operation Targets Coal Mafia Network
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a major crackdown on Friday, conducting coordinated raids across Jharkhand and West Bengal targeting the extensive network of the coal mafia. Official sources confirmed that more than 40 premises across both states are being covered under this extensive operation.
Jharkhand: Epicenter of Coal Theft Investigation
In Jharkhand, the federal agency is focusing on approximately 18 locations as part of its investigation into widespread coal theft and smuggling operations. The raids specifically target entities and individuals connected to Anil Goyal, Sanjay Udhyog, L B Singh, and Amar Mandal.
According to investigative sources, the scale of illegal activities uncovered so far indicates massive financial losses to the government running into hundreds of crores of rupees. The systematic pilferage and theft of coal resources have created a significant dent in state revenues while fueling an underground economy.
West Bengal: Illegal Mining and Storage Operations
Simultaneously, in West Bengal, the ED teams are conducting searches at about 24 premises spread across Durgapur, Purulia, Howrah and Kolkata districts. These operations form part of the investigation into alleged illegal mining, unauthorized transportation, and unlawful storage of coal.
The entire operation is being conducted under the stringent provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), indicating the serious nature of financial crimes being investigated. The ED's involvement suggests that the proceeds from these illegal coal operations were being systematically laundered through complex financial channels.
National Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This coordinated action represents one of the largest crackdowns on the coal mafia in recent years. The involvement of multiple states highlights the inter-regional nature of these illegal operations. Officials indicate that the investigation is ongoing and more developments are expected as evidence collected during the raids is analyzed.
The ED's massive operation underscores the government's intensified focus on combating organized crime in the natural resources sector, particularly in mineral-rich states like Jharkhand and West Bengal where illegal mining has been a persistent challenge.
