New Delhi/ Kolkata, Apr 1 (PTI) The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday seized about Rs 1.2 crore in cash during searches in Kolkata as part of a money laundering investigation against an alleged crime syndicate, officials said.
The action is being undertaken in the case against Biswajit Poddar alias ‘Sona Pappu’, booked on charges of attempt to murder and extortion, they said.
The ED action came amid two-phase assembly polls in the state, scheduled on April 23 and April 29.
“The operation is part of an ongoing probe into financial irregularities related to illegal land grabbing and unauthorised construction,” an officer said, adding that the action is being undertaken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
About eight premises, including the residence and commercial premises of Poddar in the Ballygunge area, and that of Babu Sona alias Rahul Das, Sun Group and Jay Kamdar, are being raided, officials said.
Poddar, against whom multiple cases are pending, is currently absconding, they said.
“He is a fugitive and has been named in several cases. Efforts are on to trace him,” the officer said.
About Rs 1.2 crore in cash has been seized from one location, officials said, adding all the cash is in Rs 500 denomination.
Besides, a country-made pistol has been seized from the premises of Poddar, who enjoyed political patronage, they said.
Poddar’s name had earlier surfaced in connection with a firing and bombing incident on Kankulia Road near Golpark.
He is known as ‘Sona Pappu’ as his family is engaged in the gold jewellery business.
Over the years, Poddar allegedly emerged as a “terror figure” in the Kasba and Topsia areas, officials said.
His name had figured in a 2015 clash over territorial control at the Ballygunge railway yard and later in a 2017 murder case. PTI NES SCH SOM
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