New Delhi: The new action of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding terrorist funding methods has surprised everyone. ED has revealed that a radical module linked to ISIS was being funded through illegal felling and smuggling of Khair (Cath) wood. In this major action taken on December 11, 2025, cash, gold and suspicious documents worth crores have been recovered.
This matter is not limited to just terrorist networks, but deep layers of illegal trade, money laundering and hawala networks have also come to light. This action of ED exposes the dangerous nexus of terrorism and illegal economy, which can become a serious challenge to the security of the country.
What is the whole matter?
ED’s Mumbai zonal team has taken this action against the highly radical module linked to ISIS. ED had started investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against the main accused Saqib Nachan and others related to this module. This investigation was carried forward on the basis of the FIR and charge sheet registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Cash and gold worth ₹9.70 crore seized.
Where were the ED raids?
What was found in the raid?
During the search, ED recovered movable assets worth about ₹9.70 crore. This includes ₹3.70 crore cash and gold jewelery and bullion worth about ₹6 crore. Apart from this, 25 bank accounts linked to the accused and suspects have been frozen. ED has also seized literature promoting radicalism, digital devices and important documents related to immovable properties.
How was the terrorist network running through wood smuggling?
Investigation revealed that this module was active in illegal cutting, smuggling and sale of Khair wood. According to intelligence input received from Mumbai ATS, the earnings from this illegal business were being used for terrorist activities. This includes recruitment, training, gathering weapons and explosives.
Indications of hawala network and suspicious banking transactions.
Important points revealed in ED investigation
- Money laundering investigation of radical module linked to ISIS.
- Well, terrorist funding comes from illegal logging and smuggling.
- Cash and gold worth ₹9.70 crore seized.
- 25 bank accounts were frozen.
- Indications of hawala network and suspicious banking transactions.
- Units related to catechu production were also investigated.
What next?
ED says that the investigation is still going on and in the coming days there may be more big revelations related to this entire network. This connection of illegal timber trade and terrorist funding has increased the concern of security agencies.
