New Delhi, India — April 25, 2026
India’s financial crime agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), is investigating alleged large-scale cash withdrawals using foreign debit cards in Maoist-affected regions, with links to a global Christian mission now under scrutiny.
Multi-State Raids and Seizures
The probe, initiated under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), involved coordinated searches carried out on April 18–19 across multiple states.
During the operation, officials seized:
- 25 foreign debit cards
- ₹40 lakh in cash
- Digital devices and documents
Authorities said the evidence points to a structured system of fund withdrawals and usage within India.
Links to Global Christian Mission Activities
The investigation is tied to activities associated with The Timothy Initiative (TTI), described by officials as part of a global Christian mission network.
According to the ED, debit cards issued by Truist Bank were allegedly brought into India and used repeatedly at ATMs to withdraw cash.
These withdrawals were reportedly carried out across multiple regions, including areas affected by left-wing extremism such as Bastar and Dhamtari in Chhattisgarh.
Cash Withdrawals in Sensitive Regions
Preliminary findings indicate that around ₹6.5 crore was withdrawn in Maoist-affected areas over the past few years.
Officials suspect the funds were used for operational activities linked to the network within India.
The ED noted that the organization is not registered under India’s foreign funding regulations, raising compliance concerns.
Key Seizure at Bengaluru Airport
In a significant development, authorities recovered 24 foreign debit cards from an individual identified as Mika Mark at the Kempegowda International Airport.
Investigators believe the cards were part of a coordinated system designed to enable repeated large-scale withdrawals, indicating possible organized involvement.
₹95 Crore Fund Flow Under Scanner
Officials also identified an online accounting platform allegedly used to track transactions and fund utilization.
The system is believed to be controlled by entities based outside India. According to investigators, nearly ₹95 crore was transferred into India between November 2025 and April 2026.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have flagged the case as a potential concern for financial integrity and internal security, particularly due to the scale of transactions and their presence in sensitive regions.
The probe remains ongoing, with further investigations underway to determine the full scope of the network and any regulatory violations.
