Major Crackdown on Illegal Granite Mining Network
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken decisive action against a massive illegal granite mining operation, attaching properties valued at over Rs 80 crore linked to the brother of a BRS legislator. The investigation targets what appears to be a well-organized scam involving substantial financial irregularities.
Probe Targets Political Connections
According to official sources, the federal agency initiated a comprehensive probe into alleged illegal mining activities conducted by Santosh Sand and Granite Supply. The company is owned by Gudem Madhusudhan Reddy, who happens to be the brother of BRS MLA Gudem Mahipal Reddy.
The investigation, based on money laundering charges, has uncovered a complex web of financial transactions and benami properties. The ED action represents a significant escalation in the government's crackdown on illegal mining operations across the country.
Properties Attached Under PMLA
Under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the Enforcement Directorate has attached multiple properties whose total value exceeds Rs 80 crore. These assets are believed to have been acquired through proceeds generated from the illegal granite mining operations.
The investigation has revealed that the mining operations continued without proper authorization, causing substantial revenue loss to the state exchequer while damaging the environment through unauthorized extraction of natural resources.
Sources indicate that the ED is examining financial records, bank transactions, and property documents to establish the money trail and identify all individuals involved in the scam. The agency is particularly focused on uncovering benami transactions where properties were held in the names of third parties.
Political Implications and Next Steps
This case has significant political implications given the involvement of a sitting MLA's family member. The timing of the investigation and subsequent property attachments has drawn attention from political circles and anti-corruption activists alike.
The Enforcement Directorate continues to expand its investigation, with officials indicating that more properties and individuals might come under scrutiny as the probe progresses. The agency is expected to file a chargesheet once the investigation is complete, detailing the money laundering mechanisms employed in this illegal mining operation.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by central agencies to tackle corruption and illegal activities in the mining sector, particularly those involving politically connected individuals.
