ED Conducts Multi-State Searches In ‘Dunkey Route’ Illegal Immigration Case; Cash, Gold, Silver & Passports Seized.

Headnote:

The Directorate of Enforcement conducted extensive search operations across Punjab, Haryana and New Delhi in connection with a money laundering investigation linked to the ‘Dunkey Route’ used for illegal immigration into the USA. The probe revealed large-scale cheating of aspiring migrants, generation of proceeds of crime, and movement of funds and valuables through an organised network of agents, middlemen, and hawala operators. Substantial cash, precious metals, digital devices, incriminating documents, and multiple third-party passports were seized.

Background:

• ED initiated investigation based on multiple FIRs registered by Punjab Police and Haryana Police.

• FIRs related to illegal immigration and deportation of 330 Indian nationals from the USA in February 2025, who had entered the country illegally via the ‘dunkey’ route.

• The investigation pertains to offences under BNS, 2023 and the Immigration Act, 1983, involving cheating, illegal migration, and money laundering.

Search Operations & Seizures

• ED carried out search operations at 13 locations across Punjab, Haryana and New Delhi on 18.12.2025 and 19.12.2025 under PMLA, 2002.

• Cash amounting to ₹4.68 crore was seized.

• Gold bars weighing 5.9 kg, valued at approximately ₹8.07 crore, were seized.

• Gold coins (20 grams) worth approximately ₹2.7 lakh were seized.

• Silver bars weighing 313 kg, valued at approximately ₹6.42 crore, were seized.

• Several digital devices and incriminating records/documents were recovered.

• More than 50 original passports of third parties were found at various premises, which are currently under examination.

ED’s Findings:

• The investigation revealed that various agents and their associates cheated gullible individuals by falsely promising legal immigration to the USA.

• Victims were charged hefty sums under the guise of lawful migration.

• Instead, they were sent through dangerous and illegal routes via South American countries, ultimately crossing into the USA through the USA–Mexico border.

• The illegal operation involved a complex network of travel agents, middlemen, donkers, overseas associates, hawala operators, and logistics providers.

• Migrants were subjected to torture, extortion and coercion, and forced to commit illegal acts during transit.

• The agents generated Proceeds of Crime by cheating victims and laundering the money through various channels.

Earlier Action by ED

• Searches were earlier conducted on 09.07.2025 and 11.07.2025 at 19 locations under PMLA.

• During earlier searches, bogus immigration stamps, fake visa stamps, incriminating records and digital devices were recovered.

• On 15.12.2025, ED provisionally attached movable and immovable properties worth approximately ₹5.41 crore, including:

– Agricultural land

– Residential premises

– Business premises

– Bank accounts

• These properties were identified as derived from or equivalent to the Proceeds of Crime generated by agents involved in illegal immigration through the dunkey route.

Status

• Further investigation is under progress.