The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made a breakthrough in combating terrorism by uncovering a terror funding network connected to the Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and Indian Mujahideen (IM). The ED has seized assets worth crores of rupees belonging to Raju Khan, a key figure in the network, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The investigation showcases the efforts of Indian agencies in targeting terror financing. The core of the case is not merely asset seizure but the uncovering of a complex terror funding network that has been active for years. Raju Khan played a crucial role in this network. Forensic analysis of his bank accounts showed that he had received 48.82 lakh rupees, of which 42.47 lakh rupees were allegedly sent to members of proscribed organizations. These transfers were made on the directives of Khalid from Pakistan and Dheeraj Sao in India. This funding was distributed among sleeper cells and operatives across the country to support terrorist operations. The case traces back to 2011 when Dheeraj Sao was running a chicken shop. He was instructed by Khalid to open a bank account and transfer money to certain individuals. For this, Dheeraj received a 13% commission. The funds were distributed to Jubair Hussain, Ayesha Banu, and others. Raju Khan’s accounts were used to further transfer the funds. The investigation began with a FIR filed against Dheeraj Sao and others under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.
