What Recent Drug Trafficking Operations Led to ED Seizing Property Records?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The ED has conducted extensive searches across multiple states.
- Two high-value properties linked to the accused were seized.
- The investigation is tied to a larger money laundering case.
- Key figures in the drug trafficking network have been identified.
- The ED aims to combat drug-related crimes effectively.
Chandigarh, Oct 31 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized critical documents and property records during extensive search operations across multiple cities in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab related to an inter-state drug trafficking case linked to money laundering, an official announced on Friday.
The ED, operating from the Chandigarh Zonal Office, executed these searches on October 29 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with a money laundering investigation involving Gopal Lal Anjana, Chhinderpal Singh (also known as Kewal), Yadwinder Singh, and others.
During their operations, the ED pinpointed two high-value residential properties owned by the accused, in addition to several parcels of agricultural land suspected to have been acquired through Proceeds of Crime.
This investigation was initiated following an FIR lodged by the Haryana Police under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), which included charge sheets against Chhinderpal Singh (alias Kewal), his nephew Yadwinder Singh, Gopal Lal Anjana, Bhola Singh, and Harjeet Singh.
As per the ongoing investigation, Chhinderpal Singh and Yadwinder Singh are suspected of sourcing opium from Gopal Lal Anjana in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. Part of the consignment was allegedly sold to Bhola Singh, Jasmeet Singh, and Harjeet Singh, while the remaining was confiscated by the Haryana Police from Chhinderpal Singh and Yadwinder Singh.
Investigators revealed that Yadwinder Singh and his uncle Chhinderpal Singh have been engaged in opium transactions for years, facilitated by Gopal Anjana, as stated in an ED release.
The ED emphasized that Gopal Lal Anjana has been actively involved in the unlawful opium trade for an extended period.
Furthermore, the authorities indicated that it is highly probable that Gopal Lal Anjana has exploited the opium license granted to his family and misappropriated part of the produce for illegal trade for personal profit.
Jasmeet Singh and Harjeet Singh also confirmed purchasing opium from Chhinderpal Singh for personal use, as noted by the ED.
Records indicate that Chhinderpal Singh has a history of conviction, having been previously charged under FIR No. 34 dated February 2, 2006, under Sections 17 and 18 of the NDPS Act. He was also charge-sheeted in a separate case under FIR No. 68 dated February 1, 2022, by the Haryana Police under Section 17 of the same act.