The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has carried out search operations on July 23 at nine locations across Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. This action was based on provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with a money laundering investigation linked to narco-terror funding. The probe involves cases registered by both Jammu and Kashmir Police as well as Punjab Police.

According to a press release from the ED, the investigation has uncovered a complex narco-terror funding network that spans the regions of Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. Notably, this network includes handlers from Punjab, identified as Satnam Singh and Manjit Singh, also known as Maan, along with operatives from Kupwara, Kashmir, such as Safeer Ahmed and Kafeel Ahmed.

The ED’s findings indicate that heroin consignments were smuggled from Pakistan. Allegedly, Pakistan-based handlers connected with the terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen coordinated the smuggling operations in collaboration with their Kashmir-based counterparts, Safeer Ahmed and Kafeel Ahmed.

Details of Heroin Smuggling Operations

In a significant instance, officials have documented the smuggling of 35 packets of heroin. Out of these, five packets were reportedly retained for local distribution, while the remaining 30 were concealed within a truck tyre for transport to Srinagar. The heroin reportedly originated from areas adjacent to the Line of Control (LoC).

The logistics of this operation involved the transportation of heroin from Srinagar to Punjab. Once in Srinagar, a consignment was delivered to two carriers, Sarabjeet Singh and Honey Baara, who were intercepted in September 2023 at Banthal. Authorities seized 30 packets, collectively weighing around 31 kilogrammes.

The network responsible for these operations is primarily led by Satnam Singh and Manjit Singh, who employed various methods to facilitate the distribution of heroin. Forged documents, fake vehicle registrations, and concealed cavities within multiple vehicles were allegedly used to execute this illicit trade.

Financial Transactions and Further Investigations

The ED’s inquiry has revealed substantial banking activities, including significant cash deposits in the accounts of Manjit Singh Maan and Sarabjeet Singh. These financial transactions are suspected to be connected to the proceeds generated from heroin sales.

During the executed searches, authorities recovered various incriminating documents and bank records, which were subsequently seized under the PMLA. Additionally, several bank accounts linked to the probe have been frozen, collectively amounting to approximately Rs 49.9 lakh.

The ongoing investigation aims to dismantle the logistics and operations of the narco-terror funding network. The ED’s activities are particularly focused on areas bordering the LoC, as these locations are deemed crucial for interrupting the cross-border narcotics supply chain.

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