EnforcementDirectorate – ED Expands Probe, Summons Officers and Family Members
EnforcementDirectorate – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has widened its investigation into an alleged criminal syndicate operating in Kolkata and has summoned three police officers believed to have links with former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas, who is currently under arrest in the case.
According to a senior official associated with the central agency, one of the officers called for questioning is a Sub-Inspector posted at a police station in south Kolkata. The agency is expected to examine their possible connections with individuals already under investigation as part of the ongoing probe.
Family Members Asked to Appear Before Investigators
The ED has also directed several relatives of arrested syndicate operator Biswajit Poddar, widely known as Sona Pappu, to appear before investigators. His wife, Soma Poddar, along with other family members, has been instructed to report to the agency’s office later this week.
Investigators are seeking additional information regarding financial transactions, assets, and other matters connected to the case. Officials believe the questioning could help establish a clearer picture of the alleged network under scrutiny.
Multiple Criminal Allegations Under Examination
Sona Pappu, a resident of Ballygunge in south Kolkata, has been facing several criminal allegations, including land grabbing and extortion. Authorities have also registered a case against him under provisions of the Arms Act.
The Enforcement Directorate initiated its money laundering investigation after taking cognisance of these predicate offences. During the course of the inquiry, the name of businessman Joy Kamdar surfaced, leading to his arrest in connection with the same matter.
Search Operations Led Investigators to Former Police Officer
As part of the investigation, ED officials conducted searches at the Fern Road residence of former police officer Shantanu Sinha Biswas in south Kolkata. The action came after investigators gathered information that prompted further scrutiny of his alleged links to the case.
Following the search operation, the agency summoned Shantanu and his two sons, Sayantan and Manish, to appear before officials at the CGO Complex in Salt Lake. However, none of the three reportedly attended the scheduled questioning on that occasion.
Previous Summons and Arrest
The former deputy commissioner had also been called for questioning in April in connection with a separate sand smuggling investigation being handled by the Enforcement Directorate. He did not appear before investigators at that time either.
As the inquiry progressed, authorities issued a lookout circular against him. After repeatedly avoiding summons, Shantanu eventually appeared before ED officials for questioning. Following an extended interrogation session, investigators placed him under arrest.
Sona Pappu Arrested After Long Evasion
While Shantanu had already been taken into custody, Sona Pappu remained out of reach for investigators for an extended period. His whereabouts had become a subject of interest for the agency as the investigation intensified.
Last month, he unexpectedly arrived at the CGO Complex office accompanied by his wife. After several hours of questioning, ED officials arrested him as part of the ongoing probe.
All Key Accused Remain in Judicial Custody
At present, Shantanu Sinha Biswas, Biswajit Poddar alias Sona Pappu, and businessman Joy Kamdar are all lodged in judicial custody. Investigators are now focusing on questioning relatives and associates believed to possess information relevant to the alleged syndicate’s operations and financial dealings.
The latest round of summons indicates that the Enforcement Directorate is continuing to expand its investigation and examine every possible connection linked to the case.