ED strikes drugs network across three States
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday launched simultaneous searches at multiple premises across Mizoram, Tripura and West Bengal in a money laundering investigation linked to cross-border drug trafficking, involving proceeds of crime estimated at Rs 142 crore. Officials said the raids targeted locations near the India-Myanmar border in Mizoram and the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura. The operation is being conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and stems from a complaint filed by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).
The case began with a major drug seizure on August 21, 2025, in Tripura, where authorities found 49.10 kg of methamphetamine and 40 grams of heroin.
The ED believes this contraband was part of a well-organised syndicate that brought methamphetamine from Myanmar, moved it through the Champhai and Zokhawthar areas of Mizoram, and then delivered it to contacts in Tripura.
The syndicate reportedly used the open Northeastern borders to move large amounts of drugs, taking advantage of the region’s tough landscape and closeness to other countries. Investigators think the network was highly organised. Once the methamphetamine entered India through Mizoram, it was sent south to Tripura for further distribution, possibly into Bangladesh or within India. The ED has also found that the money made from this illegal trade, totalling Rs 142 crore, was moved through many bank accounts and shell companies to hide its origin.
These financial moves were meant to hide the source of the money and make it look legal. The raids on Monday are focused on collecting documents, financial records, digital data, and other evidence to trace the money and find those involved. ED teams are checking bank transactions, property papers, and communication records at the locations they searched. Sources say the operation is still underway, and more information will be shared soon.
This case shows the growing link between drug trafficking and money laundering in north-eastern India. The area, which shares long, open borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, has often seen drugs coming in from the Golden Triangle. In recent years, methamphetamine has become a high-value drug, taking the place of opium and heroin on some smuggling routes. Officials say the agency will now look into the syndicate’s full financial network, including hawala operators, fake accounts, and front companies. The ED can also seize properties and assets gained from crime under the PMLA.
The investigation is also expected to improve teamwork between the ED and NCB in fighting narcofinancing. This comes as security agencies increase their watch along the northeastern borders due to growing worries about drug smuggling. Authorities think breaking the financial support for these groups is just as important as stopping the drugs themselves. More arrests and property seizures are likely as officials finish reviewing the seized evidence.
TMC strongman arrested
Kolkata: The Special Task Force of the West Bengal Police arrested former Trinamool Congress MLA Jahangir Khan, also known as Pushpa-Yo-Khan, early Monday while trying to cross into Nepal. He has been brought back to Kolkata for questioning.
The arrest happened a few weeks after the Calcutta High Court removed his interim protection on May 26, allowing police to act in several cases. Khan, who ran for the Falta seat in South 24 Parganas in the 2026 Assembly elections, has at least seven FIRs filed against him at Falta Police Station.
