ED Conducts Multi-State Raids In Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam, Seizes Rs 5.39 Crore

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has intensified its ongoing investigation into the alleged Chhattisgarh liquor scam, conducting fresh raids across multiple locations and seizing assets worth approximately ₹5.39 crore. The searches, carried out by the Raipur Zonal Office on April 30, were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, officials said on Sunday.

According to the ED, simultaneous raids were carried out at 13 premises across Raipur, Durg/Bhilai, and Bilaspur districts. The operation targeted liquor traders, chartered accountants, businesspersons, and corporate entities suspected of being involved in handling or concealing proceeds of crime linked to the case. Officials said the coordinated action was based on earlier findings from ongoing financial investigations.

During the searches, the agency recovered cash worth ₹53 lakh along with gold jewellery and bullion weighing around 3.234 kg, valued at approximately ₹4.86 crore. In addition, several incriminating documents and digital devices were seized from the premises, which are now being examined for evidence related to money laundering and financial irregularities.

Also Read: ECI Seizes Rs 865 Crore In Inducements Ahead Of West Bengal And Tamil Nadu Polls

The probe is based on predicate FIRs filed by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) and Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Raipur. Investigators allege that a structured network involving political figures, senior bureaucrats, liquor distillers, licence holders, and intermediaries was involved in generating illegal commissions through liquor procurement, licensing, and distribution between 2019 and 2022. The estimated proceeds of crime in the case stand at around ₹2,883 crore.

So far, the ED has arrested nine individuals under the PMLA, including senior officials such as a retired IAS officer, former managing director of the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited (Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited), former excise officials, and political-linked individuals. The agency has also issued six provisional attachment orders covering assets worth about ₹380 crore, including properties, bank deposits, vehicles, shares, and jewellery linked to accused persons and alleged benami holdings.

The case has also resulted in six prosecution complaints being filed before the Special Court for PMLA cases in Raipur, naming 81 individuals and entities. These cases are currently under judicial scrutiny across multiple forums, including the Chhattisgarh High Court and the Supreme Court. Officials said further attachments and legal action are likely as the investigation continues to uncover additional financial links and evidence.

Also Read: Vedanta Plant Blast: Death Toll Reaches 24 After Latest Fatality