The Enforcement Directorate (ED) took a big step on Friday by arresting the 'kingpin' of an international drug syndicate under money laundering charges in Punjab. The accused, Akshay Chhabra from Jalandhar, was taken into custody on April 2 and is currently in ED's remand.
A news agency reported that the ED raided the locations of Akshay Chhabra last October. Investigation reports stated that Chhabra managed an international drug syndicate from Ludhiana. He imported drugs from Afghanistan, distributing them in disguise through fraudulent companies.
According to the ED, significant proceeds were generated from this illegal drug trade. This illicit money was then invested in immovable properties, liquor enterprises, and sent abroad through hawala channels.
Action Initiated on NCB Complaint
The money laundering case against Akshay Chhabra is founded on a complaint lodged by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The NCB seized 20.32 kg of heroin from Chhabra not long ago.
Involvement in Illegal Drug Production
ED reports allege that Chhabra and his associates were involved in the manufacture and sale of illegal drugs. They processed morphine/raw heroin smuggled in through two Afghan nationals and circulated the finished products to various drug dealers.
The financial assets of the accused are currently under scrutiny, and efforts are being made to trace funds transmitted through hawala networks. This arrest marks a significant victory against drug syndicates.
