Shillong, Dec 8 (IANS): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted its first search operations in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills in connection with an alleged multi-crore money laundering scheme involving development funds sanctioned for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC). The searches were carried out on December 4 by the ED’s Shillong Sub-Zonal Office under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
Officials said five premises linked to the prime accused Boston Ch. Marak and co-accused Ismail Marak, Kubon Sangma and Nikseng Sangma were searched. The case pertains to the alleged diversion of development funds meant for the Asanang constituency through collusion involving GHADC members, contractors and middlemen. Investigators claim that although Rs 28.66 crore was sanctioned, a significant part was siphoned off through irregular advances, fraudulent withdrawals and non-execution of approved works.
According to the ED, 60 per cent of the funds were prematurely released to contractors in violation of financial procedures. Evidence suggests that Kubon Sangma withdrew the amounts received and returned them to Ismail Marak, while Nikseng Sangma transferred his share directly to an account linked to Boston Ch. Marak. Both contractors have reportedly admitted to withdrawing and returning funds to GHADC members or their families.
During the searches, the ED seized incriminating documents, digital devices and property-related records. Several bank accounts belonging to the accused and their relatives were also frozen. The agency said the operation marks a crucial step toward tracing the full financial trail and identifying further beneficiaries and laundering routes.
