Conviction Rate At 94% Despite Legal Challenges, Says Probe Agency Chief

Navin said India is preparing to host the GlobE Plenary in 2028 and will serve as the focal point for the BRICS asset recovery network during India's chairmanship in 2026, underscoring India's growing authority and credibility in shaping global AML and CFT standards.

He noted that India's role in global anti-money laundering efforts has grown, with India now chairing the Steering Group of ARIN-AP (Asia/Pacific Asset Recovery Interagency Network) and set to host its Annual General Meeting in 2026.

Navin said the ED has a conviction rate of 94%, and expressed confidence that most of the more than 2,400 cases pending before trial courts will result in the conviction of the accused and the confiscation of proceeds of crime, while noting ongoing legal challenges. He highlighted a key question in money laundering cases: whether trials should pause until the predicate offence is concluded or continue on a stand‑alone basis in line with international standards and FATF guidelines.

He emphasised the agency's preparedness, stating that 'Our prompt and focused response in the Red Fort blast case is a testament to our sharpened vigilance on the money laundering dimensions of terrorism and espionage.'

On the occasion of ED Day, ED Director Rahul Navin said there has been a shift in the nature of financial crimes, noting a decline in traditional offences like bank and corporate frauds, while emerging threats now include cryptocurrency fraud, cyber-enabled crimes, terror financing, anti-national activities and narcotics trafficking.