Enforcement Directorate Uncovers ₹1.4 Crore in Money Laundering Case Linked to Suspended Punjab DIG
Major Raids Target Suspended Punjab Police Official
New Delhi: On Wednesday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) announced the seizure of ₹1.4 crore along with several 'incriminating' documents linked to money laundering activities during recent operations against the suspended Deputy Inspector General of Punjab Police, H S Bhullar, and his associates.
The ED conducted searches at 11 locations on April 27, targeting Bhullar and individuals connected to him, including property dealers and suspected 'benamidars'—those who hold assets in another's name.
This investigation, initiated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), follows two FIRs filed by the CBI against Bhullar and his associates, alleging bribery and the possession of disproportionate assets.
Bhullar, who previously served as the DIG for the Ropar Range, was apprehended in October 2025 in connection with a bribery scandal.
According to the ED's statement, the searches led to the freezing of ₹1.4 crore and the recovery of various documents pertinent to money laundering operations.
The investigation has revealed that significant cash deposits and transfers occurred in the accounts of various property dealers and associated individuals, who reportedly lacked legitimate income sources relative to their land investments.
The funds were allegedly used to purchase properties under the names of suspected benamidars, with original property documents previously seized from Bhullar's residence by the CBI, indicating beneficial ownership.
Additionally, documents concerning multiple properties, including residential and agricultural lands in Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Kapurthala, Mohali, and Zirakpur, were confiscated during the recent raids. The ED confirmed that further investigations are ongoing to fully uncover the extent of the money laundering scheme and the connections between property dealers, intermediaries, and public officials linked to Bhullar.