ED raids multiple locations in Meghalaya over GHADC fund diversion case

Guwahati: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted extensive searches at multiple locations in Meghalaya on Thursday as part of its ongoing money laundering investigation into alleged fund diversion at the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC). Officials confirmed that these raids marked the first operation carried out by the agency’s Shillong sub-zonal office after registering a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in the state.

At least five premises in Tura, located in West Garo Hills district, were searched, focusing on developmental projects sanctioned for the Asanang constituency. Investigators allege that the allocated funds for these projects were misappropriated and that several approved works were never executed.

According to the Enforcement Directorate, out of a sanctioned total of Rs 28.66 crore, certain committee members, in collusion with contractors, diverted and misused public funds in violation of established rules. The investigation revealed that 60% of the approved funds were irregularly released in advance to contractors Kubon Sangma and Nikseng Sangma, contrary to applicable procedures.

Officials said the advance payments were made following the instructions of one Ismail Marak. Multiple cheques were issued in the names of the contractors. Kubon Sangma allegedly withdrew the full amount in cash and handed it over to Marak, while Nikseng Sangma reportedly transferred his share directly to a bank account as directed.

The ED has intensified its probe to trace the flow of misappropriated funds and identify all individuals involved in the irregularities.