Enforcement Directorate cracks down on illegal coal mining and revenue manipulation network; over 100 officers deployed in coordinated operation.
Ranchi/Kolkata: In a major crackdown on illegal coal mining and associated money laundering networks, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out simultaneous raids on over 40 properties across Jharkhand and West Bengal. The operation began at 6 a.m., involving more than 100 officers targeting residential compounds, business premises, toll collection points, and checkposts.
Officials said the raids targeted mafia networks involved in illegal coal extraction, unauthorized transport, and extortion, causing substantial revenue losses to the government over several years. Preliminary findings suggest the network was involved in tax evasion worth hundreds of crores and large-scale circulation of black money.
Seizure of Cash and Gold
Multiple locations yielded:
- Bundles of ₹500 notes
- Gold and diamond jewellery
- Extortion ledgers and business documents
- Digital records and unregistered property papers
Authorities indicated that a parallel cash economy had emerged in the coal belt, where illicit money was being cycled through legitimate businesses to launder proceeds from illegal operations.
Drama at Dhanbad: Dogs Used to Hinder Officials
The most dramatic incident occurred at the residence of L.B. Singh, a prominent coal businessman in Dhanbad. During the search, pet dogs were released to block ED officers from entering the premises. The animals roamed the compound for several minutes, forcing the security team to intervene before the operation could proceed successfully.
The Singh family has a prior enforcement history. Around a decade ago, the CBI raided their properties during the BCCL tender scam investigation, during which allegations of firing at officers were reported.
24 Locations in Bengal, 18 in Jharkhand — Political Links Under Scrutiny
The ED conducted this coordinated two-state operation:
1- West Bengal – 24 locations
2- Jharkhand – 18 locations
Raids spanned Kolkata, Asansol, Bokaro, Ranchi, and Dhanbad over several hours. Early findings indicate potential involvement in:
- Fake billing
- Overloading manipulations
- Illegal deductions at toll booths
- Foreign remittances via hawala channels
A senior ED officer said:
“Forensic examination of digital records and accounts will reveal the full extent of the network and provide clarity on the volume of black money involved.”
Destination of Black Money
The agency is also investigating whether the proceeds of illegal mining and transportation were channelled into:
• Political funding
• Unlawful real estate acquisitions
• Shell companies and hawala networks
Officials estimate that the total value of seized cash and undisclosed assets could significantly escalate once all properties are accounted for.
Preparation for Arrests and Next Phase
According to ED officials, this operation represents the first phase. As the investigation progresses, multiple notices and arrests are expected. Financial documents and chat records may identify several more key individuals linked to the network.
Conclusion
Controlling illegal coal mining and its associated illicit networks has long been a challenge for authorities. This raid is being described as the most decisive action against the coal mafia to date. The ED emphasised that the operation is not only aimed at financial crimes but also represents a critical step toward dismantling entrenched illegal power structures.
