Kolkata, Nov 25 (LatestNewsX) – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is probing how several shell companies funneled money from a multi‑crore coal smuggling racket that stretched across West Bengal and Jharkhand.
The agency uncovered this trail when it seized damning documents during a coordinated raid on November 21, which saw police team up with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to search as many as 44 sites in the two states.
According to insiders familiar with the case, analysis of the seized files highlighted two consistent schemes used to launder the illicit proceeds through the shell entities.
First, large sums were deposited—often in cash and phased over time—into the companies’ bank accounts, only to be withdrawn again on the same day or within hours of the deposits.
The second route involved buying enormous parcels of land across West Bengal and Jharkhand under the names of these shell companies.
Sources also said that last week’s file review exposed the participation of politically connected individuals in both states.
Of the 44 locations raided, 24 lay in West Bengal and 20 in Jharkhand. The principal accusations span massive illegal mining operations, theft, transport, storage, and sale of coal.
During the sweeps, authorities seized over Rs 14 crore in cash and jewellery/gold, along with a trove of incriminating papers—property deeds tied to the coal syndicate, land‑sale agreements, digital gadgets, and ledgers from firms under the suspects’ control.
The ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have been running parallel investigations into this high‑profile smuggling case. The CBI recently told the court that the probe is slated for closure soon.
These latest ED raids in West Bengal and Jharkhand unfolded just days after the CBI’s court filing.
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