ED arrests two in money laundering case linked to Salim Dola drug syndicate

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken major action against an international drug trafficking gang linked to Salim Ismail Dola, an associate of notorious gangster Dawood Ibrahim. Praveen alias Nagesh Ramchandra Shinde and Brijesh Kanjibhai Moradia have been arrested in the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

According to information provided by the ED's Mumbai zonal office, the investigation began with several cases registered by different investigating agencies in Mumbai. The cases were filed against Salim Dola and his associates over illegal drug trafficking. The ED started its probe on the basis of these cases.

The ED claims that the investigation has uncovered an organised network. In this network, the drug mephedrone, also known as MD, was manufactured clandestinely. It was then trafficked within the state as well as outside it, to other countries. The ED also says that proceeds of the crime were moved through hawala channels and concealed.

The ED alleges that Praveen Shinde is connected with the illegal manufacture of MD and with the handling of money received from its sale. According to the ED, the investigation has also found that this money was used to buy land, property and other assets in the names of close associates.

Brijesh Moradia, on the other hand, is accused of arranging the purchase and supply of the chemicals needed to make MD. The ED's investigation has found that cash received from Salim Dola through the angadia system was deposited in the accounts of several third parties and family members. The same amount was then sent through banks to chemical companies.

The ED also alleges that the commission earned from these transactions was routed through various accounts and used. Further investigation in the case is continuing.