PMLA Investigations: Reviewing Enforcement Directorate’s Performance in Combating Financial Crimes 2024-25

Performance of the Directorate of Enforcement in PMLA Investigations

Following the release of the annual report by the Ministry of Finance, we are analyzing the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) performance in combating money laundering and financial crimes under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The latest data provides insight into the agency’s efforts in investigating offenses, prosecuting offenders, and recovering illicit assets.

PMLA Investigations Initiated

Between April 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, the ED initiated investigations into 406 cases under PMLA. As of December 31, 2024, a cumulative total of 7,402 Enforcement Case Information Reports (ECIRs) have been registered since the enactment of PMLA.

Asset Seizures Under PMLA

The ED is instrumental in identifying and confiscating illicit financial gains acquired through illegal activities. Between April 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, the agency seized assets worth approximately ₹21,370.02 crore through 227 Provisional Attachment Orders (PAOs). This brings the total cumulative attachment of proceeds of crime to ₹1,45,927.59 crore across 2,555 PAOs as of December 31, 2024.

Additionally, the Adjudicating Authority has validated the attachment of properties worth ₹9,483.86 crore during this period, raising the total confirmed attached assets to ₹96,024.39 crore as of December 31, 2024.

Significance and Implications

The enforcement actions taken under PMLA reflect the government’s growing emphasis on financial crime prevention and anti-money laundering initiatives. With an increasing number of ECIRs recorded over the years and a notable surge in asset seizures and confirmed recoveries, the ED remains at the forefront of safeguarding economic integrity and ensuring financial security.

The consistent rise in case investigations and asset recoveries highlights the ED’s dedication to combating economic offenses and fortifying India’s anti-money laundering framework. As enforcement efforts continue to strengthen, these actions contribute to enhancing financial transparency, fostering accountability, and deterring illicit financial activities across the country.

Read the full report here.

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