ED Raids Punjab Locations in Illegal Mining Probe Linked to Bhola Drug Case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at 13 locations in Punjab’s Rupnagar district as part of an investigation into illegal mining connected to the ‘Bhola drug case’. The operation aimed to uncover illicit activities on land seized under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2015. In this case, wrestler-turned-drug lord Jagdish Singh alias Bhola is the alleged mastermind. The probe, originating from a synthetic narcotics racket exposed in Punjab during 2013-14, has led to multiple arrests and asset seizures totaling ₹95.53 crore. Despite progress, key figures like Anoop Singh Kahlon remain at large, prompting Interpol’s involvement. Lookout circulars have been issued for 18 other suspects, including non-resident Indians based in Canada and the UK.

Simultaneously, investigations into illegal mining activities on ED-seized land revealed extensive excavation without permits. The agency initiated fresh money laundering proceedings, resulting in recent raids targeting individuals implicated in the mining syndicate. Nasib Chand and others were among those targeted in the crackdown. The ED’s actions underscore ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and financial malpractice, particularly in cases with wide-ranging socio-economic impacts.