Guwahati: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has launched a major money laundering investigation into an alleged cross-border areca nut (betel nut) smuggling network, conducting searches at 20 locations across Assam, Mizoram, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.

The investigation, initiated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, centres on the alleged illegal import and sale of foreign-origin areca nut, commonly known as Burmese supari. According to the ED, the smuggling syndicate is suspected to have generated proceeds of crime exceeding Rs. 1,500 crore.

The searches were carried out on July 3 as part of the ongoing probe. The ED said the case is based on multiple FIRs registered in Assam alleging large-scale smuggling of areca nut and evasion of customs duty.

The agency is also relying on findings of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), which had earlier seized 655.32 metric tonnes of areca nut following directions issued by the Gauhati High Court.

The ED is examining the alleged financial trail linked to the smuggling network and is investigating the movement of illicit funds generated through the illegal cross-border trade. Further investigation is underway.