The Impressive TimesChhattisgarh : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched an extensive search operation across 14 locations in the Durg district of Chhattisgarh as part of its probe into a massive liquor scam that has allegedly siphoned off over ₹2,000 crore. The raids, being conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) of 2002, underscore the seriousness with which authorities are treating the financial irregularities in the state’s liquor sector.
Among the key targets of the operation are properties linked to the family of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. Notably, the residence of his son, along with the homes of several close associates, has come under scrutiny. According to sources, ED officials have gathered evidence suggesting that the son of the former Chief Minister is a recipient of the illicit proceeds generated from the scam. The involvement of high-profile figures has further intensified the investigation, drawing significant public and political attention.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the scam involves a series of fraudulent schemes and irregularities within the state’s liquor distribution and sales channels. The funds, estimated to exceed ₹2,000 crore, are believed to have been laundered through a complex network of shell companies and covert financial transactions. ED officials are meticulously tracing the money trail, scrutinizing bank records, transaction histories, and financial documents to establish the flow of funds and identify all parties involved.
The raids in Durg are part of a broader crackdown on financial misconduct in Chhattisgarh, where state officials have long been under pressure to address corruption and mismanagement in the liquor sector. In a statement, an ED spokesperson emphasized that the operation is aimed at uncovering every link in the money trail. “Our investigation is comprehensive, and we are leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to bring those involved in this scam to justice,” the spokesperson said.
As the search operation continues, investigators are expected to delve deeper into the financial networks that facilitated the scam. The involvement of politically connected individuals has raised concerns over potential interference in state governance and the misuse of public funds. The ED has urged anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
With the probe still in its early stages, further raids and arrests are anticipated as authorities work to dismantle the elaborate financial structure behind the scam.
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