ED Raids Multiple Locations Across Bengal in Multi-Crore Coal Smuggling Scam Probe

In a major crackdown on alleged organized corruption, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday conducted extensive raids across multiple locations in West Bengal as part of its ongoing investigation into a multi-crore coal smuggling scam. The searches were carried out under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), marking a significant escalation in the central agency’s probe.

According to officials, the raids targeted premises linked to suspected coal syndicate members, middlemen, and individuals believed to have facilitated the illegal mining and transportation of coal from Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) areas. The ED is probing large-scale financial irregularities and illicit profits generated through the smuggling network, which allegedly operated for years across the coal belt regions of Asansol, Durgapur, and adjoining districts.

Sources said the agency seized several incriminating documents, digital records, cash, and property-related evidence during the coordinated operation. The ED suspects that proceeds of the scam—running into several hundred crores—were laundered through shell companies and benami properties.

This case, which first surfaced following a CBI FIR, has political ramifications in the state, as several influential figures are reportedly under the scanner. The ED has intensified scrutiny amid growing concerns about deep-rooted corruption within the illegal coal trade.

Officials noted that more raids and summons may follow as the investigation progresses, with the agency focused on tracing the full money trail and identifying the key beneficiaries of the smuggling racket. The probe is expected to widen in the coming weeks as authorities analyze the seized materials.