<h1>ED admits no authority to seal locked premises during PMLA searches under Section 17</h1> The Enforcement Directorate informed the Madras High Court that it lacks authority to seal premises found locked during searches under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The statement came during hearings on petitions filed by a film producer and businessman challenging ED's search and sealing actions at their properties. While acknowledging power under Section 17 of PMLA to break open locks, the Additional Solicitor General stated ED chose not to escalate the situation. The agency was instructed to withdraw notices from the premises and return seized materials. The court reserved orders on interim applications and scheduled the main petition hearing for four weeks later.