Introduction:

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) holds significant power in its role, particularly concerning surveys, searches, and seizures. This article will delve into the powers exercised by the ED during these activities and discuss important provisions outlined in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Powers while conducting Survey:

Under Section 16 of the PMLA and Section 7 of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act 2018 (FEOMA), the investigating officer conducting a survey can exercise the following powers:

a) Marking identification on the inspected goods.

b) Maintaining an inventory report that details all the furniture present in the premises.

c) Recording statements made by individuals present during the survey.

Powers of the Investigating Officer during Seizure or Search:

According to Section 17 of the PMLA and Section 8 of the FEOMA, officers performing seizures or searches have the following powers:

a) The authority to search the entire property, including houses, vehicles, motor vehicles, and other possessions.

b) The power to inspect lockers, break almirahs, and open lockers belonging to the owners during the search process.

c) Preparation of a report or inventory detailing the seized items.

d) Marking identification on the inspected goods.

e) Recording statements of the person in possession of the property.

Power to Issue Summons:

Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002:

The ED has the power to issue summons to individuals when their physical presence is deemed necessary for conducting investigations. The summoned person must submit the required documents and answer questions posed during the investigation. They can either appear in person or designate an agent appointed by the Enforcement Directorate.

Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOMA) 2018:

The director has the authority to issue summonses to individuals if their physical presence is important in a particular case and if there is a need to review essential documents possessed by the concerned person.

Search Conducted for a Person:

Under Section 18 of the PMLA and Section 9 of the FEOMA, if the Enforcement Directorate believes that a person is hiding or has hidden any property or possessions that may be crucial to specific proceedings, they can pass an order to conduct a search on that individual.

Recovery of Fines, Penalties, and Arrears of Penalties:

Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002:

According to Section 69, if the fine amount imposed as a penalty is not paid within 60 days, the director, deputy director, or any authorized person can recover the outstanding amount as specified in the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Foreign Exchange and Management Act (FEMA):

Under Section 14A, the adjudicating authority can direct the Enforcement Directorate to take necessary steps to recover fines, penalties, or arrears of penalties that have not been paid within 90 days by the concerned person.

Other Powers under PMLA:

Retention of Records: As per Section 50, the ED has the power to detain important records or property gathered during the investigation. However, the deputy director can detain records only upon specifying a valid reason.

Time Period: According to Sections 20 and 21, the records collected by the ED can be retained for a period not exceeding 180 days.

Conclusion:

The ED possesses extensive powers that allow it to conduct investigations regardless of the authority’s influence. Through schemes like the PMLA and FEMA, the ED not only safeguards India’s financial system but also protects foreign transactions occurring within the country.

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