ED raids cover illegal coal mining, transport, and storage networks
Searches continue in Bengal and Jharkhand amid major loss claims
The ED raids on illegal coal mining networks intensified on Thursday as the Enforcement Directorate carried out searches at 40 locations across West Bengal and Jharkhand. Officials stated that these searches were underway in connection with illegal coal mining, transportation, and storage activities that have caused a major financial loss to the government. The action marks one of the largest coordinated searches in recent months.
Meanwhile, the agency conducted 24 searches in West Bengal and 18 in Jharkhand. These searches included locations linked to individuals and entities suspected of involvement in coal theft and smuggling networks. Officials noted that the raids were part of an ongoing effort to curb illegal mining operations that have expanded over the years. Therefore, the agency increased its focus on active routes and storage hubs in both states.
In West Bengal, the searches were spread across Durgapur, Purulia, Howrah, and Kolkata districts. These regions have reported repeated incidents of coal theft and related smuggling activities. The ED said that it was tracking financial trails connected to these networks to determine the scale of illegal operations. Later, officials added that the financial loss suffered by the government due to large-scale coal theft could run into hundreds of crores.
In Jharkhand, the searches also targeted areas where illegal mining and transportation chains were reported. The agency continued to investigate multiple cases linked to the illegal coal trade. Officials believe that these networks operate across district borders, which makes coordinated searches necessary. Also, the ED stated that the searches were part of several ongoing cases related to coal theft and smuggling that have caused significant damage to revenue collection.
The Enforcement Directorate further stated that the loss from these activities “will be in the hundreds of crores.” The agency has not yet released details on seizures or arrests. However, officials indicated that the raids will continue as part of the wider investigation into illegal coal mining in West Bengal and Jharkhand.
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