Mumbai: In a major crackdown on terror-linked financial networks, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has carried out extensive raids at more than 40 locations across Maharashtra in connection with a money laundering case suspected to have links with Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI. Simultaneous search operations were also conducted in Delhi, Kolkata, and Prayagraj as part of the coordinated nationwide action.
According to official sources, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is probing the financial angle of the case, has recovered assets worth nearly ₹10 crore during the ongoing investigation. The seizures include cash, gold valued at approximately ₹3 crore, and other valuables estimated at around ₹6 crore. In addition, investigators have frozen 25 bank accounts believed to be connected to the accused, significantly disrupting the suspected funding channels.
Property-related documents, digital devices, and electronic records have also been seized during the searches. Officials said these materials are expected to provide crucial evidence regarding the flow of funds, overseas links, and the operational structure of the network under investigation.
The ED initiated its probe based on multiple FIRs registered earlier by the NIA. Preliminary findings indicate that the accused maintained close associations with extremist outfits, including ISIS, and were allegedly recruited into terrorist networks. Investigators revealed that the individuals lived inconspicuously among the general population, posing as ordinary citizens while allegedly generating income through illegal and clandestine activities.
Security agencies believe the funds raised through unlawful means were routed for terror-related purposes, including recruitment, logistics, and sleeper-cell operations. The investigation has also highlighted the use of layered financial transactions to conceal the origin and destination of the money.
The NIA has stated that further action will focus on locations linked to the accused as well as the financial dealings of their family members and close associates. Authorities are examining whether relatives were knowingly or unknowingly used to park or move funds. More searches and arrests are likely as agencies continue to unravel the broader network and its international connections.