High-Profile Money Laundering Case: Brother of Expelled DMK Functionary Arrested

Mohammed Saleem, brother of expelled DMK functionary Jaffer Sadiq, has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a significant money laundering case. He played a pivotal role in laundering proceeds linked to an international drug smuggling scheme. Saleem's wealth, disproportionate to his declared income, underscores his involvement in the criminal network.

Mohammed Saleem, brother of expelled DMK functionary Jaffer Sadiq, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a high-profile money laundering case. Saleem was taken into custody on Monday evening, and a local court remanded him to judicial custody until August 27.

The ED's Chennai Zonal Office announced this substantial arrest as part of its ongoing investigation into drug smuggling and money laundering. Saleem's arrest is linked to the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) 2002, following revelations of his involvement in laundering proceeds related to the Jaffer Sadiq case.

Jaffer Sadiq was initially arrested by the NCB for his alleged role in an international drug nexus and has been detained at Tihar Jail since June. Investigations have exposed Sadiq as a key figure in smuggling pseudoephedrine and other narcotics under the guise of health-mix powder and desiccated coconut to countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia. Saleem, who utilized multiple firms to obscure and launder crime proceeds, has accumulated over Rs 8 Crore in illicit cash. His luxury assets starkly contrast with his declared income, highlighting the extent of his criminal involvement.

(With inputs from agencies.)