New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a major crackdown against an alleged organised network involved in the illegal infiltration of Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals into India. The Lucknow Zonal Unit of the agency conducted simultaneous searches at 16 locations across five states on July 16, 2026, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. During the operation, ED officials seized ₹40 lakh in cash, around 180 grams of gold, digital devices and several important documents.
According to the ED, the searches were conducted at locations spread across West Bengal, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and other areas. The agency has alleged that an organised syndicate was actively involved in facilitating the illegal entry of Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals into India, concealing their identities and arranging fake Indian identity documents.
The preliminary investigation has revealed that the alleged network helped foreign nationals obtain documents such as Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, passports and other identity proofs by fraudulent means. These documents were allegedly used to establish false identities and facilitate their settlement in different parts of the country.
ED officials said that several incriminating documents, digital evidence, bank records and financial documents were recovered during the search operations. The agency is now conducting a detailed forensic examination of the seized electronic devices and documents to trace the financial transactions of the alleged network and identify individuals involved in the operation.
The investigating agency stated that statements of some key individuals linked to the case were also recorded during the raids. Officials believe that the recovered material may provide crucial information about alleged money laundering activities, movement of illegal funds and the role of other members associated with the network.
The primary focus of the ED investigation is to determine how the alleged infiltration network was being financed and whether money generated through these activities was routed through various channels to conceal its origin. The agency is examining bank accounts, properties, digital transactions and suspicious financial activities connected with the case.
Investigators said that such cases involve not only illegal entry into the country but also activities related to identity fraud, preparation of fake documents and concealment of financial transactions. The ED is analysing the seized digital evidence and records to understand the structure of the alleged network and the methods used for its operation.
Security agencies believe that networks involved in illegal infiltration often rely on local contacts for identity manipulation, creation of fraudulent documents and hiding financial trails. Such investigations generally examine multiple aspects, including organised crime, human trafficking and money laundering.
The ED has stated that further investigation in the case is underway. Based on the analysis of the seized evidence, the agency may initiate further legal action against individuals found to be involved. Investigators are also examining the geographical spread of the alleged network and identifying other persons who may have played a role in its activities.
