NIA Raids in Jharkhand Uncover PLFI Extortion and Terror Racket
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted searches at two locations in Khunti, Jharkhand, targeting the People’s Liberation Front of India (PLFI), a banned Naxal group. The raids led to the seizure of several incriminating digital devices and documents.
The PLFI was involved in extorting money from coal traders, transporters, railway contractors, and businessmen in Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. They also conspired to commit terrorist activities, including murders and violent attacks, to create fear among businessmen and contractors.
On Monday, the NIA filed charges against Shankar Yadav, an associate of jailed gangster Aman Sahu, for his involvement in firing, extortion, and arson at a coal mine in Latehar, Jharkhand. Yadav, a resident of Bhagalpur, Bihar, was charged under various sections of the IPC, UA(P) Act, and Arms Act. He was the 25th person to be charged in this case, which was initially registered by local police in December 2020 and taken over by the NIA in March 2021.
Investigations revealed that Yadav helped create shell firms to channel the extorted money. During a search at his premises in February 2024, Rs 1.30 crore in cash was seized.
Doubts Revealed
NIA -: NIA stands for National Investigation Agency. It is a special police force in India that investigates serious crimes like terrorism.
Jharkhand -: Jharkhand is a state in eastern India. It is known for its forests, wildlife, and mineral resources.
PLFI -: PLFI stands for People’s Liberation Front of India. It is a group involved in illegal activities like extortion and terror.
Extortion -: Extortion means forcing someone to give you money by threatening them. It is illegal and punishable by law.
Terror Racket -: A terror racket is a group involved in creating fear and committing crimes to make money. They often use violence and threats.
Khunti -: Khunti is a district in the state of Jharkhand, India. It is one of the places where the NIA conducted raids.
Coal Traders -: Coal traders are people or companies that buy and sell coal. Coal is a type of fossil fuel used for energy.
Bihar -: Bihar is a state in eastern India. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
Chhattisgarh -: Chhattisgarh is a state in central India. It is known for its forests and mineral resources.
Odisha -: Odisha is a state in eastern India. It is famous for its temples, beaches, and tribal cultures.
Shankar Yadav -: Shankar Yadav is a person who was involved in the illegal activities of the PLFI. He worked with a jailed gangster named Aman Sahu.
Aman Sahu -: Aman Sahu is a gangster who is currently in jail. He was involved in the extortion and terror activities of the PLFI.
Shell Firms -: Shell firms are fake companies created to hide illegal money. They don’t do any real business.
