ED conducts searches at 40 locations in ISIS module-linked case

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has conducted searches at 40 locations across multiple districts and states as part of an ongoing probe in the Saquib Nachan case, connected to an ISIS-linked module. Saquib Nachan was earlier arrested by the National Investigative Agency for his alleged active involvement in promoting terrorist activities. The Directorate conducted searches at Padgha-Borivali Region near Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hazaribaug, Prayagraj, Daman, and Ratnagiri amongst other locations on Friday and Saturday. During the course of search operations, movable assets worth over 9 crore 70 lakh rupees in the form of cash, gold jewellery and gold bullion were recovered and seized. Furthermore, 25 Bank accounts pertaining to the accused and suspects have been frozen. Various other incriminating such as documents, literature promoting radicalization and digital devices were also seized. ED revealed that the individuals involved were part of a highly radicalized ISIS-linked module and were allegedly engaged in recruitment, training, procurement of weapons and explosives, and raising funds to sustain the operations of the terror module. Further investigation is under progress.

The ED also detected indications of hawala operations during the probe. Further analysis revealed that individuals linked to the Borivali–Padgha ISIS module were involved in the illegal cutting and smuggling of Kaith trees from reserve forest areas in the Padgha–Borivali region. To uncover the wider network, the agency searched for companies and entities involved in Kattha production that were procuring Kaith wood from the suspects and accused. During these searches, officials found suspected Kaith wood that appeared to have been obtained illegally. The ED informed the concerned Forest Department authorities for necessary action.