ED's Multi-Crore Seizure Exposes Illegal 'Dunki' Route to US

The ED has seized cash, silver, and gold worth Rs 19.13 crore during raids in Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, uncovering a money laundering operation linked to illegal immigration to the US via the 'dunki' route. The investigation originates from FIRs by Punjab and Haryana Police on deported Indians.

In a significant breakthrough, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has confiscated cash, silver, and gold amounting to Rs 19.13 crore during intense raids across Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, linked to a money laundering investigation involving illegal immigration to the United States via the 'dunki' route.

The operation, targeting over a dozen locations including key suspects in Jalandhar and Panipat, resulted in the seizure of Rs 4.62 crore in cash, alongside 313 kg of silver and 6 kg of gold bullion. The contraband was discovered within the premises of a Delhi-based travel agent, allegedly involved in the illegal operation.

The ED uncovered incriminating evidence from electronic devices, shining a light on the modus operandi of travel agents who allegedly extorted significant sums by promising legal passage to the U.S., only to send immigrants on perilous journeys via South America into Mexico.

(With inputs from agencies.)