ED Raids Target Salai Group in Manipur Over Alleged Sedition, Fraud

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches in Manipur linked to the Salai Group's key figures. The operation follows accusations related to a 2019 London press conference declaring Manipur's 'independence,' which involved fraud and sedition charges. Rs 57.36 crore was fraudulently amassed from the public under misleading investment schemes.

In a significant enforcement action, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out searches at five locations in Imphal, Manipur, targeting individuals accused of leading the Salai Group of Companies. The raids began Wednesday morning in coordination with state police and focused on properties owned by Yambem Biren and Narengbam Samarjit, self-styled leaders of the Manipur State Council.

The investigation stems from a controversial 2019 press conference in London where Biren and Samarjit proclaimed Manipur's 'independence' from India, acts the authorities classify as sedition and efforts to incite discord among different groups. These activities are being scrutinized by the Imphal Sub Zonal office, based on cases filed by the NIA and the CBI.

Authorities revealed that the accused established and renamed financial groups, allegedly operating illegally as non-banking financial entities, collecting Rs 57.36 crore in cash from the public under the pretense of high returns. Funds were funneled into personal accounts and used to purchase properties, repay loans, and purportedly to support their proscribed activities against the Indian state. The ED's investigation continues, uncovering investments and incriminating evidence.

(With inputs from agencies.)