As per reports, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated raids at more than 40 locations across Tamil Nadu in connection with an illegal sand mining case. The ED's scrutiny extends to individuals associated with the sand mafia, businessmen, and state officials. Among the properties being searched are those belonging to prominent industrialists S. Ramachandra and Dindigul Rathinam.

These raids are being carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. Additionally, the ED is delving into allegations of substantial tax evasion related to the sale of sand extracted from riverbeds.

Local media has indicated that searches are taking place not only at Dindigul Rathinam's premises but also at residences connected to his relatives. Raids are reportedly underway in 10 districts, including Chennai, Trichy, Pudukottai, and Dindigul.

The Enforcement Directorate has stated that despite possessing licenses for sand mining, certain businessmen were operating outside the boundaries of the law. It's worth noting that sand mining falls under the purview of Durai Murugan, the General Secretary of the DMK, in the MK Stalin-led government.

Reports have further suggested that the ED is also focusing on locations linked to officials within the Tamil Nadu Water Resources Management of the Public Works Department (PWD). During the raids in Pudukottai, armed CRPF personnel accompanied ED officials.

The local media has reported the seizure of evidence demonstrating the loading of sand into vehicles with counterfeit receipts, fake QR codes, and forged signatures of Assistant Engineers from the PWD Water Resources Department.

Additionally, the ED is reportedly conducting searches at properties associated with business associates of Tamil Nadu minister Senthil Balaji. Minister Senthil Balaji is already facing allegations in an alleged cash-for-jobs scam.

Furthermore, the ED has reportedly carried out searches at 10 premises linked to an aide of the minister. However, it's important to note that a News18 report, citing sources, suggests that these cases may not be directly related to Minister Senthil Balaji.

These raids come on the heels of a recent bail plea by Minister Senthil Balaji, with the Principal Sessions Court directing the agency to respond by September 15th. Currently, Senthil Balaji is in custody at the Puzhal Central Prison following his arrest by the ED on June 14th, which occurred after raids at his official residence and office.

Image source: TOI