RNS: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Ranchi, conducted search operations on March 12, 2024, at 20 locations in Ranchi and Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, related to Yogendra Sao, Amba Prasad, MLA, and their other family members and associates.
The searches were carried out under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with a case involving criminal activities such as extortion, collection of levy, illegal sand mining, land grabbing, among others.
The ED initiated the investigation based on more than 15 FIRs registered by the Jharkhand Police under various sections of the IPC, 1860, and the Arms Act, 1959, against Yogendra Sao, his family members, and associates.
The FIRs allege their involvement in criminal activities resulting in the acquisition of proceeds of crime.
During the search operation on March 12, 2024, unexplained cash amounting to approximately Rs. 35 lakhs, digital devices, fake stamps of Circle Offices and Banks, and various incriminating documents in the form of handwritten receipts/diaries were recovered and seized.
Additionally, evidence related to illegal sand mining in Jharkhand was also seized. The proceeds of crime generated from these activities were identified to be acquired in cash and subsequently utilized for further business activities and the purchase of several immovable properties.
The ED stated that further investigation into the matter is ongoing.
