TerrorFunding – ED Conducts Multi-State Searches in Alleged Illegal Infiltration Investigation
TerrorFunding – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a coordinated investigation into an alleged network suspected of financing illegal infiltration and using foreign funds through multiple financial channels.
The Enforcement Directorate’s Lucknow Zonal Office on Thursday carried out simultaneous search operations at 13 locations spread across Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and West Bengal as part of an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The action stems from a case originally registered by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (ATS), which is examining allegations related to illegal infiltration by Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals, the use of forged Indian identity documents, and suspected money laundering through charitable organisations and banking networks.
Investigation Focuses on Financial Trail
According to officials familiar with the investigation, the agency is tracing the movement of funds believed to have been routed through public charitable trusts registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). Investigators are examining whether contributions received from certain organisations based in the United Kingdom were diverted through several bank accounts, including suspected mule accounts, before reaching their final destinations. The inquiry is aimed at identifying the financial chain and determining whether these transactions violated existing laws.
Searches Conducted Across Four States
The coordinated operation covered multiple locations believed to be connected with the ongoing investigation. Search teams visited premises in Deoband in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district, Jamia Nagar in Delhi, Ballabhgarh in Haryana’s Faridabad district, and several districts of West Bengal, including South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas and Murshidabad. The searches were conducted under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act as investigators gathered documents, digital records and other evidence linked to the case.
Case Originates from UP ATS FIR
The current enforcement action is based on a First Information Report registered by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad in 2024. The FIR alleges the existence of an organised network involved in helping Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals enter India illegally. Investigators have alleged that the network arranged forged identity documents, including Aadhaar cards, PAN cards and passports, and later assisted individuals in settling across different parts of the country.
Officials said the ATS investigation pointed to a well-established system that allegedly supported illegal activities through financial assistance and document preparation. These findings later formed the basis for the money laundering probe initiated by the Enforcement Directorate.
Agencies Examine Alleged Money Transfers
Sources associated with the investigation stated that authorities suspect funds were distributed in relatively small amounts, including transfers of Rs 6,000, Rs 8,000 and Rs 10,000, to individuals allegedly linked to the network. Investigators believe these payments may have been intended to help recipients establish themselves after entering the country.
The agency is also examining whether the funds were ultimately used to provide long-term financial support and rehabilitation for individuals who had allegedly entered India through illegal channels. Officials are analysing bank records and transaction patterns to determine the exact flow and utilisation of the money.
Probe Also Looks at Border District Operations
Investigators suspect that separate groups may have performed different roles within the alleged network. According to sources, one group is believed to have assisted in facilitating illegal entry through border districts in West Bengal, while another allegedly handled the preparation of identity documents required for movement and settlement elsewhere in India.
The investigation is further examining claims that financial support extended beyond direct cash assistance. Authorities are looking into allegations that some individuals may have received employment opportunities, e-rickshaws or other forms of livelihood assistance to help them establish a stable source of income after relocation. The Enforcement Directorate has not announced any arrests in connection with Thursday’s searches, and the investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to analyse the evidence collected during the raids.