ED Arrests Azam Khan After Release from Jail in Seven-Year-Old Money Laundering Case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) took Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan into custody on Saturday shortly after his release from jail, in connection with a money laundering case registered in 2019 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

According to the information provided, the ED team had obtained an arrest warrant from a court in Ghaziabad. A 16-member team, accompanied by security personnel, reached the jail in four vehicles to take Khan into custody.

The team arrived at around 4 pm on Saturday. Along with ED officials, paramilitary personnel were present, while local police provided additional security. After taking Khan into custody, the team left with him for Ghaziabad.

ED Takes Azam Khan into Custody Shortly After Release

Azam Khan and his son Abdullah Azam walked out of jail at 6:57 pm on Saturday. Hundreds of supporters had gathered outside to welcome them. Khan's elder son, Adeeb, was also present.

However, before Khan could meet his supporters and family members, the ED team took him into custody.

Khan reportedly opposed the action and initially refused to get into the ED vehicle. Supporters raised slogans against the agency during the incident.

The ED team eventually left with Khan at approximately 7:12 pm, around 15 minutes after he came out of jail.

Supporters Celebrate Abdullah Azam's Release

Following Azam Khan's detention by the ED, Abdullah Azam left for home with his elder brother, Adeeb.

Supporters celebrated Abdullah's release by bursting firecrackers and followed him towards his residence. Abdullah reportedly asked them to return and disperse peacefully.

His release brought relief to supporters who had gathered outside the jail.

ED Likely to Seek Custodial Remand

The ED is expected to produce Azam Khan before the special court in Ghaziabad and may seek custodial remand for questioning in the money laundering case.

Although Khan had secured bail in the two PAN card case, his detention in the ED matter has created fresh uncertainty over his immediate release from custody.

The next course of action will depend on the proceedings before the special court and the decision on the ED's request for remand.