Jharkhand & West Bengal Coal Mafia Under ED Scanner: 40 Raids

A sweeping operation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has targeted the coal mafia in Jharkhand and West Bengal, with simultaneous searches at more than 40 locations. This multi-pronged investigation, governed by the PMLA, is zeroing in on extensive coal theft and smuggling rackets. The ED’s focus is on key players and businesses, specifically mentioning Anil Goyal, Sanjay Udhyog, L B Singh, and Amar Mandal, who are allegedly central to these illicit operations. The scale of coal pilferage uncovered is immense, leading to significant revenue losses for the government, with estimates pointing to losses in the hundreds of crores. The ED’s presence was felt strongly in Jharkhand with 18 search sites, and equally in West Bengal, where 24 premises in districts like Durgapur, Purulia, Howrah, and Kolkata are being examined for their alleged roles in illegal coal activities.