The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is currently conducting a money laundering investigation into the activities of the notorious drug smuggling kingpin Ali Asgar Shirazi, has uncovered substantial cash deposits in accounts associated with him, as well as other individuals and entities. These transactions appear, on initial examination, to involve illegally acquired proceeds from drug sales.
ED officials executed searches in compliance with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act at multiple locations in Mumbai on various dates, including October 16, 17, 19, and 27, as part of their investigation into the money laundering case involving Shirazi and other individuals.
During these search operations, the authorities discovered and seized a sum of Rs. 5.50 lakh in cash, gold valued at Rs. 57.11 lakh, assorted digital devices such as mobile phones and laptops, and incriminating records.
Ali Asgar Shirazi is closely associated with Kailash Rajput, another prominent figure in the realm of drug trafficking, who is considered one of India's most sought-after drug traffickers. Rajput is wanted in numerous cases across the country and is believed to have strong ties with global terror financier Dawood Ibrahim. He frequently changes his location, residing in various countries across Europe in addition to India.
Shirazi's arrest took place at the Mumbai airport in May as he attempted to flee to Dubai. The Mumbai Police's anti-extortion cell apprehended him, although he seemed unaware of a look-out circular (LOC) issued against him by the Mumbai crime branch in March of the same year. His name had surfaced during the interrogation of five individuals arrested in the case.
The ED's investigation was initiated based on an FIR filed by the Jogeshwari Police Station in Mumbai, under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. This legal action was taken in response to the seizure of 15.743 kg of ketamine valued at Rs. 7.87 crore.
Shirazi is reportedly engaged in the large-scale smuggling of synthetic drugs, including MDMA and ketamine, from India to Europe and the United States. His activities have made him a significant figure in the global drug trade.
