ED Launches Massive Crackdown: Raids at 40+ Coal Mafia Locations in Jharkhand & Bengal

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a major crackdown on top coal traders and alleged coal mafia networks. The agency carried out raids at more than 40 locations across Jharkhand and West Bengal as part of a large-scale search operation.

The investigation is focused on major coal businessmen and networks suspected to be involved in illegal coal activities. As part of the probe, ED teams also searched the Salt Lake (AK Block) residence of coal trader Narendra Khadka, who was recently summoned to Delhi. Multiple teams conducted simultaneous raids at the homes and offices of several businessmen.

In Jharkhand, the ED team from Ranchi raided 18 locations linked to cases of coal theft and smuggling. The action covers cases involving Anil Goyal, Sanjay Udyog, L.B. Singh, and Amar Mandal. These cases are believed to involve large-scale coal theft and government revenue losses worth hundreds of crores of rupees.

Another ED team raided 24 locations across Durgapur, Purulia, Howrah, and Kolkata in West Bengal. These searches are related to illegal mining, unauthorised transportation, and unlawful storage of coal. Individuals whose premises were searched include Narendra Khadka, Anil Goyal, Yudhishthir Ghosh, Krishnamurari Kayal, and several others.

This combined operation is being seen as a major strike against coal mafia operations in the region. The ED has indicated that more revelations are expected in the coming days. Notably, irregularities in coal trade have been reported several times in the past as well.