ED files charge sheet against 5 in ₹650 crore coal scam involving illegal mining network

In a major development in an alleged illegal mining and money laundering case, authorities have filed a charge sheet against five individuals in connection with a ₹650 crore coal-related scam. The case, linked to organized coal theft and extortion networks, has been submitted before a special court in Kolkata under provisions related to financial crime investigations.

The accused named in the charge sheet include individuals identified as Chinmoy Mandal and Kiran Khan along with their associates. Investigators have alleged that the group was part of a structured syndicate involved in illegal coal extraction, unauthorized transport, forged documentation, and systematic extortion from those engaged in legitimate coal trade operations. According to the investigation, the racket operated across the Durgapur-Asansol region and surrounding industrial zones, with links traced through multiple complaints registered by agencies including Eastern Coalfields Limited and security forces. Officials stated that the probe was initiated based on dozens of FIRs registered across various police stations in the region.

Investigators further allege that the syndicate used a network of shell companies to route illicit funds, while also collecting extortion under various names from transporters and traders. Raids during the investigation reportedly led to the recovery of cash, digital records, and assets, while financial analysis revealed large-scale transactions linked to the accused network.