Money laundering is standalone offence; ED can challenge closure of predicate offence: Madras High Court

The Madras High Court ruled that money laundering is a standalone offence and that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) can challenge the closure of a predicate offence. The case involved a challenge to the ED’s jurisdiction to investigate money laundering independently of the underlying offence. The court found that the ED has the authority to pursue money laundering cases even if the predicate offence is closed. This ruling reinforces the ED’s powers under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and ensures that money laundering activities are effectively addressed.