Did the ED file a supplementary chargesheet in the PLFI terror funding case?
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Synopsis
The ED has taken significant steps in the PLFI terror funding case by filing a supplementary chargesheet against Dinesh Gope and 19 others. This move highlights the ongoing crackdown on illicit financial networks linked to extremist organizations in India. Discover the details of this high-stakes investigation and its implications for national security.
Key Takeaways
- The ED has filed a supplementary chargesheet against Dinesh Gope in a terror funding case.
- 19 other individuals are also named in connection to the case.
- The total Proceeds of Crime are estimated at Rs 20 Crore.
- Gope was arrested linked to extensive money laundering operations.
- The ED is broadening its investigation across Jharkhand and neighboring states.
New Delhi, Oct 18 (NationPress) The ED, Ranchi Zonal Office, has submitted a supplementary Prosecution Complaint (PC) under PMLA, 2002, to the Special PMLA Court in Ranchi against Dinesh Gope, the self-proclaimed leader of the outlawed Naxal group People’s Liberation Front of India (PLFI) concerning a terror funding case, according to an official statement released on Saturday.
The complaint implicates 19 additional individuals and entities in a case involving terror funding and money laundering, with the total Proceeds of Crime (POC) generated through organized extortion and levy collections by the PLFI estimated at around Rs 20 Crore.
In August, the ED arrested Dinesh Gope, the incarcerated leader of the banned Maoist organization PLFI, linked to a money laundering case.
The ED had initiated an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Gope based on the stipulations of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
A notorious Maoist figure, Gope was apprehended by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Nepal on May 21, 2023, due to a terror funding case. Prior to his capture, the Jharkhand government announced a reward of Rs 25 lakh, while the NIA offered an additional Rs 5 lakh for information leading to his arrest. As of August, he remains incarcerated in Palamu Central Jail.
According to ED officials, Gope was interrogated for two days in July 2023, during which he confessed to extortion and collecting money through shell companies managed by his close associates and family.
Investigations revealed that Gope laundered several crores via companies such as Bhavya Engikan Pvt Ltd, Shiv Shakti Minerals Pvt Ltd, Shakti Samriddhi Infra Pvt Ltd, and Palak Enterprises, operated by his wives Shakuntala Devi and Geeta, along with associate Sumant Kumar.
The investigation further uncovered that the NIA seized Rs 19.93 lakh from his wives' bank accounts and identified transactions exceeding Rs 2.5 crore across more than two dozen accounts. Additionally, a flat in Ranchi and a property in Edalhatu worth nearly Rs 1 crore were attached.
The money laundering activities trace back to a FIR registered in 2018 at Bedo police station, Ranchi, where it was found that after the November 2016 demonetization, Gope’s associate was apprehended while trying to deposit Rs 25.38 lakh in defunct currency notes.
The ED is currently broadening its investigation to delineate Gope’s extortion network, financial pathways, and investment channels spanning across Jharkhand and neighboring regions.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in addressing the serious threats posed by extremist organizations like the PLFI. The ED's actions underscore the importance of national security and the need for a robust response to curb terror funding and related criminal activities.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PLFI?
The PLFI, or People’s Liberation Front of India, is a banned Maoist organization operating primarily in Jharkhand, known for its involvement in extortion and violence.
What are the charges against Dinesh Gope?
Dinesh Gope faces charges related to terror funding and money laundering, with evidence suggesting extensive financial operations linked to illegal activities.
How much money is involved in the terror funding case?
The total Proceeds of Crime generated through the PLFI's activities are estimated to be around Rs 20 Crore.
What actions has the ED taken so far?
The ED has filed a supplementary chargesheet and is expanding its investigation to trace financial networks and extortion activities associated with Dinesh Gope and others.
Why is this case significant?
This case highlights the critical issue of terrorism financing in India and the government's commitment to combating extremist organizations.
