Investigation – ED Expands Kolkata Land Syndicate Probe With Fresh Searches
Investigation – The Enforcement Directorate widened its investigation into alleged money laundering linked to land syndicates in Kolkata on Friday, carrying out coordinated search operations across several locations connected to individuals under scrutiny in the case.
The searches are linked to an ongoing probe involving former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Sinha Biswas and alleged land syndicate figure Biswajit Poddar, popularly known as Sona Pappu. Both men were arrested earlier this month and are currently in the custody of the central agency as investigators continue questioning them regarding suspected financial irregularities and illegal land-related transactions.
Raids Conducted Across Multiple Kolkata Locations
ED officials began operations early in the day by reaching the residence of a businessman in the Chakraberia area of Bhabanipur in south Kolkata. Officers carried out detailed searches and examined documents and other materials believed to be relevant to the investigation.
Soon afterward, another team visited a hotel situated on Royd Street in central Kolkata. According to sources familiar with the development, officials initially questioned the hotel management before starting a search of the premises. Investigators have reportedly directed the hotel owner to appear before the agency for further questioning.
A separate team simultaneously conducted search operations at the residence of a police officer in the Kasba area of south Kolkata. Sources indicated that the officer is believed to have close links with Sinha Biswas, whose name has emerged prominently in the investigation into alleged land-related financial crimes.
Interrogation Led Investigators to New Locations
Officials associated with the inquiry said the latest searches were based on information gathered during the interrogation of Sinha Biswas and Biswajit Poddar. Investigators are now attempting to verify financial records, communication details, and other evidence that may establish connections between the accused individuals and the alleged land syndicate network.
According to sources, the agency is focusing on tracing money trails and identifying properties or assets that may have been acquired through illegal means. The fresh raids are being viewed as part of a broader attempt to collect supporting evidence and uncover additional individuals who may have played a role in the alleged operations.
Murshidabad Mansion Also Under Scanner
Apart from Kolkata, ED teams also reached Kandi town in Murshidabad district, where they carried out searches at a large ancestral property linked to Sinha Biswas. The mansion, located in Ward Number 8 of Kandi Municipality, is known locally as a prominent family residence.
Residents in the area said the property had remained locked since the arrest of Sinha Biswas earlier this month. On Friday morning, officials reportedly broke open the main gate to gain access to the premises before beginning their search operations.
The property is also associated with Gauri Biswas, sister of Sinha Biswas and vice-chairperson of the Trinamool Congress-led Kandi Municipality. However, investigators have not publicly disclosed whether she is directly connected to the case under investigation.
Probe Into Alleged Financial Network Continues
The Enforcement Directorate has not yet released an official statement detailing the outcome of the searches conducted on Friday. However, officials indicated that the investigation remains active and additional questioning may take place in the coming days.
The case has drawn attention because of the alleged involvement of individuals connected to law enforcement and local land dealings in Kolkata and surrounding districts. Investigators are expected to continue examining financial transactions, property records, and possible links between different individuals named during the probe.