ED (Credit: OpenAI)
New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate carried out raids under Section 17 of the PMLA, 2002 on 21 November 2025. The action relates to large-scale illegal coal mining, theft, transportation, storage and sale across the Bengal-Jharkhand border region. Multiple FIRs registered by state police earlier indicated an active coal supply network without valid documentation.
The ED operation sought evidence of financial transactions and assets linked to the illicit trade. Officials believe this network generated substantial proceeds of crime. Documents seized reportedly support the allegations raised in the FIRs.
During the operation, authorities seized more than ₹14 crore in cash and gold ornaments. Alongside, officials found large volumes of incriminating documents. These included property papers, MoUs related to land deals, digital devices and account books linked to entities involved in the racket. Investigators believe the documents reveal storage of illegal earnings and identification of beneficiaries. Diaries and registers found on-site reportedly record cash movement associated with unlawful transactions. The seized materials are now being examined for deeper financial links.
The ED searched 20 locations in Jharkhand, focusing primarily on areas in Dhanbad and Dumka. Properties linked to Lal Bahadur Singh, Anil Goyal, Sanjay Khepka and Amar Mandal were covered. Raids extended to their companies and other individuals connected to them. Investigators suspect these parties played roles in the illegal coal chain. Evidence gathered from their premises may help trace funds and confirm operational roles in transport and distribution. Key suspects are being questioned for further clarification.
Twenty-four locations were raided across Durgapur, Purulia, Howrah and Kolkata. These included residences, offices, illegal toll collection hubs and coke plant facilities. Names associated include Narendra Khadka, Krishna Murari Kayal, Yudhishthir Ghosh, Raj Kishore Yadav, Lokesh Singh, Chinmoy Mandal and Nirad Baran Mandal. Investigators believe they were connected either directly or through linked entities. Raids uncovered evidence hinting at organised involvement and possible collaboration with local administrative personnel. This supports suspicions of systematic illegal activity.
Over 100 ED officers participated in the coordinated action, assisted by CRPF personnel to ensure operational safety. Officials reported high-level planning due to the scale and sensitivity of the probe. Secured teams simultaneously executed searches at all target locations to prevent evidence tampering. Technology was used to track communications and secure digital material. Investigators say the coordinated strategy helped uncover large evidence volumes. More enforcement steps are expected in subsequent phases.
The ED investigation is based on multiple FIRs filed by police in West Bengal and Jharkhand. FIRs alleged a powerful coal syndicate operated in border areas. Coal was reportedly moved from Jharkhand to Bengal without legal documentation. Evidence implies involvement of certain officials who facilitated the illicit trade. Investigators also found ledger entries suggesting cash accumulation and distribution among beneficiaries. The network allegedly stored significant illegal earnings in undisclosed locations. Raids aim to identify the full chain of responsibility.
Authorities are now verifying digital data, financial records and land documents seized. Individuals named in the investigation may face interrogation under money laundering laws. ED is expected to pursue asset attachment proceedings and further arrests. Analysts suggest the case may expand as names of additional collaborators emerge. Authorities believe evidence points to a structured criminal operation. The probe will continue to establish money flow trails and convict those involved under PMLA provisions.
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