ED arrests I-PAC co-founder over alleged coal scam-linked money laundering probe in Bengal

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a co-founder of political consulting firm I-PAC in connection with a money laundering investigation linked to an alleged coal scam in West Bengal. The arrest was made in Delhi under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act after multiple rounds of searches conducted by the agency.

The case originates from a 2020 first information report filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation, which alleged large-scale coal pilferage from mines operated by Eastern Coalfields Limited in and around the Kunustoria and Kajora areas near Asansol. The ED probe is based on suspected financial trails emerging from the same investigation.

According to officials, the agency had earlier carried out searches at multiple locations connected to individuals and entities linked to the consultancy firm, including properties in Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai. The investigation also covers alleged movement of funds through shell entities and suspected hawala channels, with claims that proceeds were routed through corporate structures linked to consultancy operations.

The case has also triggered political reactions, with concerns being raised over the timing of the arrest ahead of the upcoming West Bengal elections. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities examining financial transactions, corporate links and alleged fund transfers connected to the broader coal pilferage probe.