TNI Bureau: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a massive crackdown across Ganjam district in Odisha, carrying out raids at more than 25 locations in Berhampur, Konisi, Sheragada, Asika and nearby areas in connection with an alleged illegal sand mining, money laundering and liquor trade network.

During the searches, officials seized around ₹2.5 crore in cash, gold ornaments, important documents and several luxury vehicles. Large stacks of currency notes were reportedly recovered from cupboards and almirahs, leaving officials surprised by the volume of cash involved. Evidence of illegal liquor business was also found at several locations.

The raids targeted several prominent contractors and sand traders, including Class-I contractor and BJD leader Hrushikesh Padhi, his son and contractor Sachin Padhi, sand businessman Krupasindhu Dhal, Sunil Kumar Patra, Subhasish Sahu (Bunty), Biswajit Patra (Hockey), and Bhagaban Sahu (Bhalu), among others. Searches were conducted at their residences, offices and business premises.

According to sources, Krupasindhu Dhal is suspected to be the mastermind behind a syndicate involved in illegal sand mining and related activities. Investigators found that lease documents of several sand ghats and stone quarries were allegedly in his name, while operations were being run through forced partnerships and illegal arrangements.

The investigation is linked to large-scale illegal sand mining along the Rushikulya, Bahuda and other major riverbeds in Ganjam district, which had earlier been flagged in a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report. The report had highlighted massive revenue losses to the state exchequer due to unauthorized mining.

Sources said the accused allegedly supplied sand, stone and other construction materials to major infrastructure projects, including the under-construction Iiser campus near Laudigaon, Berhampur, and raised bills worth several crores. It is alleged that a significant portion of the earnings was unaccounted and laundered through benami assets and shell businesses.

In addition to cash and gold, the ED seized benami vehicles, property-related documents and records of financial transactions. Officials are currently verifying the source of the seized money and examining bank accounts and business records.

Six special teams have been formed to probe interstate links and trace the flow of illegal funds. Officials said more raids and arrests are likely as the investigation progresses.