UP News:
In a sweeping action, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has undertaken a significant operation against money laundering and hawala networks in districts like Lucknow and Balrampur. Targeting Changur Baba and his network, ED's 18 teams conducted raids at 14 locations simultaneously. This massive operation kicked off at 6 AM to eliminate any chance of escape. During the raids across Balrampur, Utraula, Lucknow, Pune, and other places, numerous startling clues were uncovered.
The operation in Balrampur spanned approximately 13 hours, investigating assets worth over INR 100 crore. Homes of individuals involved in land dealings were also searched, gathering transaction details. A raid was conducted at the residence of Clerk Rajesh Upadhyay in the Balrampur CGM office area of Chinhat, Lucknow. ED also combed through areas in Utraula previously investigated by ATS. The raids yielded gold, cash, luxury vehicles, and property documents.
Additionally, signs of funding from Dubai, UAE, and Nepal emerged. Neetu and Naveen's properties were also scrutinized. Early morning raids at 6 AM focused on Utraula, including a complex under Neetu’s name. Items in the shop, registers, and other documents underwent detailed examination. Changur’s residence in Madhpur was thoroughly searched with police unlocking rooms for an in-depth investigation.
Also read: 'Trapped with a Hindu name, sold post-conversion in Saudi - a gang rape ordeal', the harrowing story of a girl caught by Changur Baba.
Information was also gathered about a demolished mansion by the administration. Several people, including former head Jumman, who were either involved in dealings with Changur or borrowed money from him, were questioned. Both benami and named properties are being meticulously examined. During ED's interrogation, news of nervousness spread with many showing signs of distress. ED ensured no one left or entered their premises without permission.
Raids extended to locations such as Rehramafi village and Rafinagar, involving further questioning of individuals. The 6 AM raids were strategically timed to prevent any escape attempts. The STF team interrogated a youth named Sabroz in Utraula, releasing him post-clearance. The search for Changur’s nephew Sohrab and his ally, Rashid, continues with ATS efforts intensifying. Additionally, properties worth INR 16 crore in the Lonavala area of Pune are under scrutiny, linked to Changur Baba, Naveen Rohera, and Mohammad Ahmed. Sangeeta Devi’s name is also associated with these assets, and ED remains focused on compiling evidence of money laundering.
