The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday seized around Rs 2.5 crore in cash during extensive raids targeting sand mafia operations in Ganjam district, Odisha. The cash, mostly in Rs 500 notes, was found packed inside large almirahs.
Raids were carried out at the residence of BJD leader Hrushikesh Padhi and at nearly 25 other locations linked to prominent figures in the sand and illegal liquor trade. The operation uncovered a deeply entrenched network of unlawful sand mining, illegal liquor production, and financial irregularities, with rivers like Rushikulya, Bahuda, and Bada Nadi exploited for years, causing significant revenue losses to the state.
Investigators also recovered evidence of fake Y-forms, illegal sand transport, and manipulation of government auctions. BJD leader Krupasindhu Muduli has been identified as a key orchestrator of the syndicate.
Alongside cash, ED teams seized important documents, property papers worth crores, and multiple luxury vehicles. The probe is ongoing, with authorities continuing to trace the full extent of the illicit operations.
