Assam: Customs dept raids homes of coal traders in Margherita over alleged illegal activities

Early this morning, the Customs Department launched coordinated raids at the residences of three coal traders in the 83rd Margherita constituency, who have long been under suspicion for their alleged involvement in the illegal coal trade. 

The raids targeted the homes of Sunil Gurung, Bayani Ganesh, and Guvin Chetry, all of whom are accused of controlling the illicit coal market in the region and accumulating wealth beyond their known incomes.

The operations, which began in the early hours, were conducted at a large residence in Bargolai. A significant team from the Customs Department has been involved in the raids, yet no specific details regarding the progress of the operation have been disclosed to the media so far. The authorities have remained tight-lipped about the exact nature of the evidence seized or the ongoing investigation.

These traders have long been a focal point of controversy in the Margherita area due to their suspected involvement in the illegal coal mafia, a situation that has drawn criticism from local residents and authorities alike. The traders are believed to be running an illegal coal mining and distribution operation, with claims of exploiting loopholes in the system to avoid paying necessary taxes and duties.

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This latest raid is part of an ongoing investigation that has seen multiple efforts to uncover the scope of the illegal coal trade in the region. The Customs Department had previously conducted a raid on these traders' operations, but no public information was provided at that time, leaving many questions unanswered.

Today’s raids have once again highlighted the ongoing issues surrounding illegal coal mining in Assam, especially in Margherita, a region notorious for its involvement in the illicit coal market. As of now, the Customs Department has not shared further information, leaving the public and media in anticipation of future developments.

The ongoing investigations are expected to shed more light on the involvement of these traders in the illegal coal trade, and whether there are further individuals or networks linked to this illicit activity in the region.