Source Credit: The Hindu
The Enforcement Directorate raided 12 locations spanning 10 different states across India concerning its investigations into the banned terror group Popular Front of India, with M.K. Faizy, national president of the Social Democratic Party of India, having just been arrested on money laundering charges in relation to the PFI case.
Skyrocketed on the heels of Faizy's arrest, the operation by the ED commenced early today with several teams in different states, inclusive of Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka, targeting properties linked to persons allegedly connected to the money laundering network associated with the banned outfit.
The follow-up raids were conducted shortly after the arrest of Faizy. SDPI is said to be the political face of PFI, and the probe has already indicated the flow of finance suspected of being linked to some activities of the banned organization.
The Enforcement Directorate is investigating financial routing and alleged money laundering linked to the disruption of activities of terrorist organizations and the propagation of extremist ideologies. It is believed that through various channels these funds were being channeled to support radicalization and violent activities. M.K. Faizy, arrested in connection with money laundering, has been accused of taking the lead in these transactions.
As a result of his arrest, SDPI and its relationship with the PFL have been critically examined, with law-enforcement agencies chasing after more evidence. The ED very much encompasses the government's ongoing crackdown on terror financing and the dismantling of networks facilitating acts of extremism. The authorities have further hinted that investigations are still going on, and more arrests will not be ruled out as searches for evidence ensue.
