ED Conducts Searches In UP In Money Laundering Probe Against UK-Based Preacher Maulana Shamsul Huda Khan

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has carried out search operations at two locations in Uttar Pradesh as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation against UK-based Islamic preacher Maulana Shamsul Huda Khan. The action was taken under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following allegations of illegal funding, concealment of foreign citizenship, and unlawful acquisition of assets.

According to officials, the searches were conducted at residential premises linked to the accused in Sant Kabir Nagar and Azamgarh districts. The investigation was initiated based on three FIRs registered by Uttar Pradesh Police, which cited alleged offences including fraud, forgery, and criminal conspiracy.

Authorities claim that Khan was appointed as a primary school teacher at a madrasa in 1984 and later acquired UK citizenship in 2013. Despite allegedly obtaining foreign nationality, investigators contend that he continued to draw a government salary until 2017 and subsequently received pension benefits until 2023. The agency has alleged that the accused concealed his foreign citizenship status and misrepresented his nationality while continuing to access government funds.

The ED further alleged that funds were routed through non-governmental organisations controlled by the accused under the guise of donations. These funds were reportedly used for constructing madrasas and acquiring immovable properties. Financial analysis conducted during the probe indicated that over Rs 5 crore was credited to bank accounts held in Khan’s name and in entities allegedly associated with him.

Investigators stated that the accounts were maintained with several major Indian banks and involved transactions spanning from 2007 to 2025. Among the entities under scrutiny are foundations and educational societies purportedly linked to the accused. Authorities are examining whether these funds constitute proceeds of crime under the PMLA framework.

During the searches, officials said they recovered documents related to the acquisition of 17 immovable properties. While the declared purchase value of these assets is estimated at approximately Rs 3 crore, investigators claim their current market valuation may be significantly higher. The seized records are undergoing detailed analysis to determine the exact financial trail and ownership structure.

The agency has also alleged that the accused travelled to multiple foreign countries over the past two decades and may have received funds through various banking channels. Additional claims include possible links with overseas organisations, though the investigation into foreign connections remains ongoing.

Officials emphasised that the probe is at a preliminary stage, and further findings will depend on forensic analysis and financial examination of the seized materials. No formal conclusions have been announced yet, and the investigation continues to expand as authorities trace funding sources and potential collaborators.

The case has drawn attention due to its cross-border financial aspects and the involvement of foreign citizenship issues. Legal experts note that PMLA investigations involving international transactions often require coordination with multiple agencies and can take considerable time to reach final determinations.