Enforcement Directorate Investigates Rs 50-Crore Investment Scam in Manipur

The Enforcement Directorate has initiated a probe into a significant investment scam in Manipur, allegedly involving Rs 50 crore linked to anti-India activities. Raids were conducted at multiple locations associated with key figures in the Salai Group of companies. The investigation follows a controversial declaration of independence made by these individuals in London in 2019. The ED claims that the accused fraudulently collected funds from the public under the guise of high-interest investment schemes, which were then misappropriated for unlawful activities. This case highlights serious allegations of sedition and financial misconduct.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 17, 2025, 12:24 IST

ED Conducts Raids in Manipur Over Alleged Money Laundering

New Delhi/Imphal, Dec 17: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched an investigation into a money laundering case involving an alleged investment scam worth Rs 50 crore, which is purportedly linked to activities against India.

On Wednesday, officials executed searches at five locations in Imphal, the capital of Manipur, associated with Yambem Biren, who claims to be the chief minister of the Manipur state council, and Narengbam Samarjit, who identifies as the external affairs and defence minister of the same council.

According to ED representatives, these individuals are considered the "key figures" in the Salai Group of companies.

The investigation stems from a press conference held in London in 2019, where Biren and Samarjit proclaimed Manipur's independence from India.

This declaration is viewed as an act of sedition, potentially inciting conflict and fostering animosity among various groups, as stated by the ED.

Previously, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had filed cases against the two.

Additionally, they are implicated in the formation of the "Kadangband Swajaldhara Implementation Committee" in May 2003, which was later renamed Smart Society in August 2008.

They also established a financial entity known as Salai Financial Service (SAFFINS), with its registered office located in Sagolband Tera Loukrakpam Leikai, Imphal.

The ED's findings indicate that the accused, along with the Salai Group, illicitly gathered funds from the public by offering high-interest rates.

According to the agency, "Smart Society operated unlawfully as a non-banking financial company (NBFC), collecting cash deposits from the public under the pretense of membership fees and only disbursing interest in cash."

Furthermore, the ED reported that they amassed Rs 57.36 crore from unsuspecting investors through various schemes, which were then funneled into the personal accounts of the Salai Group, Smart Society, and their directors.

The agency alleges that these funds are proceeds of crime, utilized for activities against the Indian government, sedition, and inciting discord among different communities.