ED keeps vigil on Hyderabad human egg racket over money laundering

Hyderabad: In a significant development in the human egg collection racket, Enforcement Directorate officials have mounted a close vigil over suspected Prevention of Money Laundering Act violations involving huge cash exchanges and digital payments. The central agency is likely to register an Enforcement Case Information Report shortly in connection with the illegal network.

According to sources, the agency is closely monitoring the ongoing investigation conducted by Malkajgiri police and will obtain copies of local First Information Reports for verification. A dedicated ED team is collecting details regarding fertility centres involved in unauthorised oocyte collection, probing suspicious cash and digital payment channels between accused agents and clinics, and examining legal compliance regarding clinic licensing.

So far, three criminal cases have been registered across Begumpet and Saroornagar police stations under Malkajgiri limits, resulting in 11 arrests. Police teams rescued 43 women during raids, including 31 victims identified specifically in the Begumpet case. Investigators have also served formal notices to 14 fertility hospitals, IVF centres, and Assisted Reproductive Technology banks seeking comprehensive patient and operational records.

Simultaneously, the ED is scrutinising the financial transactions and past criminal histories of key accused, including Amit Sharma, Nikkat Parveen, Reshma Khatoon, Meghavath Srinivas, Jepray Pradeep, Sk Parveen, Vijay Bhagwah Rao Salunke, and Pankaj Soni.

With Malkajgiri police actively questioning these suspects in custody, ED officials are expected to examine their confessional statements to trace illicit money trails and establish money laundering links.

Meanwhile, local police have intensified efforts to identify middlemen and agencies responsible for donor recruitment, transportation, accommodation, and referral arrangements with clinics. Authorities are scrutinising historical donor registration logs and medical files across fertility establishments to verify repeat donation cycles, medical histories, and adherence to mandatory consent protocols.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mouli Mareedu

Mouli Mareedu