Did the ED Conduct Searches in Ranchi and Delhi for a Land Scam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ED's raids targeted nine locations in Ranchi and Delhi.
- Seized evidence includes cash and documents related to fraudulent land deals.
- Investigation involves collusion with government officials.
- Kamlesh Kumar, the main accused, has been arrested.
- Ongoing efforts to combat land scams are crucial for justice.
New Delhi, Sep 25 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Ranchi zonal office undertook comprehensive search operations across nine locations in Ranchi and Delhi under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, linked to a significant land scam case.
On September 23, the searches were concentrated on the properties of Brajesh Kumar Singh, a key figure in the land scam syndicate, alongside other involved parties.
The ED's investigation commenced following multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by the Jharkhand Police against a syndicate engaged in land grabbing.
In a press release, the ED stated, "The primary suspect, Kamlesh Kumar, was arrested on July 26, 2024, and a Prosecution Complaint has been submitted against him and five others to the Special Court (PMLA), Ranchi."
The investigation revealed that the accused, in collusion with government officials, including circle officers, falsified official land records to unlawfully acquire and sell extensive tracts of non-saleable tribal, government, and Bhuinhari lands.
During the latest searches, the ED confiscated a large quantity of incriminating materials, including various deeds and agreements tied to the fraudulent transactions, as well as numerous digital devices.
Additionally, unaccounted cash totaling Rs 59 lakh was seized during the operations.
Previously, a search at Kamlesh Kumar's premises had yielded unaccounted cash amounting to Rs. 1.02 crore and 100 rounds of live ammunition.
The agency has requested the confiscation of the seized cash as the investigation proceeds.
Remarkably, on Tuesday, the ED executed a series of raids in Ranchi and Delhi as part of its inquiry into a multi-crore scam concerning tribal-owned land.
Sources indicate that over six locations in Ranchi and three sites in Delhi were scrutinized by ED officials.
Those under investigation include the alleged land mafia Kamlesh Kumar Singh and B.K. Singh, owner of Kanke Resort, whose properties are also being examined.
The raids extend to associates, including property dealers and document facilitators.