Medical Shop Owner Faces Charges for Drug Money Laundering in Punjab

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Jalandhar has filed charges against Rajesh Kumar, owner of Friends Medical Agency, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Kumar is accused of selling intoxicating drugs without bills and acquiring properties worth Rs. 1.37 crore through drug money.

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Jalandhar has submitted a prosecution complaint in the Special Court (PMLA) in SAS Nagar (Mohali) against Rajesh Kumar, the owner of Friends Medical Agency. The charges have been filed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The court acknowledged the complaint on August 16, 2024, as per the agency's press release.

The ED's investigation stemmed from a First Information Report (FIR) filed by Punjab Police under Section 22 of the Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, implicating Rajesh Kumar. The investigation revealed that Kumar was selling intoxicating tablets without issuing bills and had been doing so for a prolonged period. The proceeds from these illicit activities were used to acquire movable and immovable assets, according to the ED.

A provisional attachment order had been issued, seizing properties amounting to approximately Rs. 1.37 crore belonging to Rajesh Kumar and his family. This attachment was later confirmed by the Ld. Adjudicating Authority in New Delhi. Further investigation in the case is ongoing, stated the agency. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)