ED Conducts Raids Linked to SDPI in Chennai Amid Nationwide Operation
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting multiple searches in Chennai as part of a nationwide crackdown involving the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). These operations follow the arrest of SDPI national president M.K. Faizy and are focused on alleged funding connections between SDPI and PFI.
Key Takeaways
- ED Raids: Conducting searches in Chennai.
- Nationwide Focus: Part of a larger operation across ten states.
- M.K. Faizy Arrested: SDPI president arrested at Delhi airport.
- Illicit Funds: SDPI allegedly received Rs 4.07 crore.
- PFI Connections: SDPI accused of being a PFI front.
Chennai, March 6 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is executing searches at various sites in Chennai related to its investigation of the outlawed terror group, the Popular Front of India (PFI). These operations are part of a broader initiative spanning 12 locations across ten states.
The recent crackdown is a consequence of the arrest of M.K. Faizy, the national president of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on March 3.
In Chennai, searches are being conducted at two key sites, including the SDPI state office. Faizy is currently in ED custody. The ED has alleged that the SDPI acts as a “political front” for the PFI.
According to an official statement from the agency, “As the national president, M.K. Faizy exercised authority and control over the activities of SDPI, which is a recipient, beneficiary, and user of Proceeds of Crime—funds raised by PFI within and outside India as part of a larger criminal conspiracy. Faizy was fully aware that PFI was engaged in fund-raising activities to support unlawful, violent, and terrorist activities in India.”
The ED claims that the SDPI has received Rs 4.07 crore in illicit funds. The ongoing investigation into the PFI is rooted in two cases registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), along with multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) from various law enforcement agencies.
Authorities assert that PFI officials, members, and supporters raised funds both domestically and internationally—especially from Gulf countries—through legitimate banking channels and illegal “hawala” transactions. These funds allegedly constitute part of a wider conspiracy to finance terrorist activities throughout the nation.
The ED further contends that the SDPI functioned as a “front” for PFI, sharing common members, leaders, and cadres.
The agency alleges that the SDPI relied on PFI for its daily operations, including policymaking, candidate selection for elections, and mobilizing cadres among other related tasks.
A document that has been seized reportedly sheds light on PFI’s objectives, characterizing it as an organization dedicated to promoting an Islamic movement within India. The document indicates that PFI supports the principles of Jihad in all forms and has established SDPI along with several other front organizations to achieve its objectives.
In relation to the PFI case, the ED has attached assets worth Rs 61.72 crore, filed nine charge sheets, and arrested 26 officials and members of the organization, including its chairman, general secretary, and members of both national and state executive councils.
Investigators have found that the PFI received over Rs 62 crore in its 29 bank accounts from May 2009 to May 2022, with more than half of the total amount deposited in cash. The organization reportedly maintained thousands of active members in Gulf countries, through whom it raised funds via various means, including donations.
Furthermore, two foreign organizations—the “Indian Fraternity Front,” linked to PFI, and the “Indian Social Forum,” associated with SDPI—are also under investigation in relation to the case.
