Kolkata, February 3: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a series of raids in West Bengal on Tuesday as part of an investigation into sand and coal smuggling cases. ED officials targeted multiple locations in the West Bardhaman district.
A team from the ED arrived in the district on Tuesday morning and conducted a raid in Nabagram. Sources indicate that the ED is investigating allegations of illegal mining and smuggling linked to Eastern Coalfields Limited. Approximately 25-30 officials, accompanied by central security forces, are conducting searches in the area. Raids are also ongoing in the Durgapur and Pandaveswar regions of the same district.
Officials have reached the residence of a sand mafia figure in Durgapur, who is accused of being involved in this illegal trade for an extended period. Previously residing in Panagarh, he built a luxurious home in Durgapur two years ago. Reports suggest he recently traveled to Dubai.
A three-member team, along with central forces, initiated the search operation early in the morning. Initially, they faced resistance in entering the premises. However, with the assistance of central forces, ED officials were eventually able to force their way inside. Sources indicate that officials also visited the home of the suspect’s brother.
The ED team is attempting to uncover the suspect’s connections and the extent of his network concerning sand mining. However, no official information has been released regarding any seizures made during the raids.
Earlier, on January 8, the ED conducted searches at the residence and office of Pratik Jain, the head of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), in connection with a coal smuggling case. Following the leads obtained from that raid, the ED is now targeting Durgapur.
The raids at the I-PAC office and Jain’s premises had sparked significant political uproar in the state. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited both locations and removed documents and files, alleging that the ED was attempting to seize election-related materials from her party during the searches.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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