Under-invoicing of exports would get top priority in the on-going probe of Goa illegal mining cases.
The Enforcement Directorate, which is probing the financial aspects of the multi-crore Goa illegal mining scam, is simultaneously investigating the cases under Prevention of Money Laundering Act as well as Foreign Exchange Management Act.
Sources in Panaji told The Hindu on Wednesday that in the 16 cases the ED has been pursuing, 22 people and entities have been issued summons so far. This include Radha Timblo, who was in the news recently following her name was revealed by the Centre for having an account abroad. Officials said Ms. Timblo has been asked to report to the ED office in the city on November 18, 2014.
Considering the number of records under verification and people involved, it could take at least three months to be complete the first round of investigation, an ED official said.
“Considering the fact that there are as many as 80 mining companies and 110 exporters of iron ore, nearly 300 persons would come under our scanner,” said a senior official of ED requesting anonymity.
He, however, hastened to add that though the probe would take a long time, wherever conclusive evidence is found against any party during the course of investigation, under PMLA or FEMA, action would be taken as per law.
The ED has already questioned former Goa Director of Mines and Geology Arvind Lolienkar who is under suspension.
The ED had registered these cases in June 2014 based on the findings of the Justice (retd.) M.B. Shah Commission of Inquiry.
