Mumbai
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted searches at the Bandra and Mahim residences of Shahzad Sheikh, a close aide of controversial spiritual leader Jamaluddin Shah, popularly known as Chhangur Baba. The raids are part of an investigation into a suspected multi-state money laundering and religious conversion racket.
Officials seized digital devices, property papers, and bank documents linked to transactions involving around ₹200–300 crore. The ED suspects the use of shell companies and hawala routes to illegally transfer funds from countries like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Nepal. Reports indicate that Baba’s associates made frequent trips to Islamic nations and opened over 40 bank accounts under shell entities.
In Mahim, the ED raided Rizvi Heights, where Sheikh was present during the operation. He was questioned regarding a ₹1 crore fund transfer from Baba’s associate, Naveen Ghanshyam Rohra. The funds are believed to have been used for illegal activities, including religious conversions and attempts to disturb public order.
The ED also examined Sheikh’s mobile records and account details. Simultaneously, the agency searched 12 more locations in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh. These coordinated raids led to the seizure of land deeds, expensive vehicles, gold, and large amounts of unaccounted cash.
Chhangur Baba, on the run for months, was recently arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) from Madhpur village in Balrampur and has now been sent to judicial custody. The ED is continuing its hunt for other suspects, including Mehboob, Pinky Harijan, Hazira Shankar, Sagir, and Amen Rizvi, who allegedly posed as a journalist. The probe aims to expose the alleged misuse of spiritual platforms for financial crimes and illegal conversions.