Investigation – ED Questions Kolkata Police Officer in Syndicate Money Trail Case
Investigation – The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday questioned Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas in connection with an alleged money laundering network linked to a criminal syndicate operating in the city.
Biswas appeared before officials at the ED office located in Kolkata’s CGO Complex after repeatedly missing earlier summons issued by the central agency. His appearance came shortly after the agency contacted the Directorate of Security seeking details about his official status and current duties.
Repeated Summons Led to Fresh Action
According to officials familiar with the matter, the Enforcement Directorate had issued multiple notices asking the senior police officer to join the investigation. One of the summons was reportedly served on April 28, a day before the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, but he did not attend the questioning session.
As concerns grew that the officer could leave the country before appearing before investigators, the agency later issued a lookout circular against him. The move was intended to ensure his presence during the ongoing inquiry.
The questioning is linked to an investigation involving alleged financial irregularities connected to a criminal syndicate reportedly operated by Biswajit Poddar, also known as Sona Pappu.
Syndicate Probe Expands
Investigators claim the syndicate has been associated with several criminal allegations, including extortion and illegal land acquisition activities in parts of Kolkata. Sona Pappu, who reportedly resides in Ballygunge in south Kolkata, is also facing charges under the Arms Act.
The Enforcement Directorate initiated the money laundering investigation after examining multiple complaints and related financial transactions connected to the case. Earlier in the probe, businessman Joy Kamdar was arrested by the agency.
Officials believe the investigation may reveal links between criminal operations and financial misconduct involving several individuals. The agency has been examining bank records, property-related documents, and other financial evidence as part of the inquiry.
Searches Conducted at Officer’s Residence
Last month, ED officials carried out searches at Biswas’s residence on Fern Road based on information gathered during the investigation. Following the raid, the officer reportedly remained away from public appearances for several days.
Soon after the search operation, the agency summoned Biswas along with his two sons, Sayantan and Manish, asking them to appear before investigators at the CGO Complex. However, none of them attended the scheduled questioning session at that time.
The case has drawn attention due to the involvement of a senior Kolkata Police officer and the wider allegations surrounding the criminal syndicate.
Links to Earlier Sand Smuggling Investigation
This is not the first time Biswas has come under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate. The officer had earlier been summoned in connection with a separate investigation related to alleged sand smuggling and suspected financial misappropriation.
In that matter, Biswas did not personally appear before the agency. Instead, his legal representative visited the ED office on his behalf. Sources familiar with the case had earlier stated that the officer requested additional time from investigators citing professional commitments and workload.
The Enforcement Directorate has been examining financial transactions and alleged irregularities linked to the sand smuggling case as well. Officials reportedly wanted to question Biswas regarding specific details that emerged during that investigation.
The latest appearance before ED officials is expected to play a significant role in the agency’s ongoing efforts to trace financial links and establish the extent of alleged criminal activities connected to the syndicate case.