Kolkata/New Delhi, April 1 The Enforcement Directorate seized approximately ₹1.2 crore in cash and a locally made pistol during searches in Kolkata as part of an investigation into money laundering against an alleged criminal and his associated syndicate, official sources said.
The action is being taken in the case against Biswajit Poddar, also known as Sona Pappu, who is implicated in multiple cases of attempted murder and extortion, they said.
The ED's action comes amid the two-phase assembly elections in West Bengal, which are scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
About eight premises, including Poddar's residence and commercial premises in the Ballygunge area, as well as those of Rahul Das, also known as Babu Sona, the business entity Sun Group, and its promoter Jay Kamdar, were raided under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said.
Approximately ₹1.2 crore in cash was seized from a location allegedly linked to Kamdar, they said, adding that all the cash was in ₹500 denomination.
In addition, a locally made pistol was seized from Poddar's premises, who is reportedly receiving political support, the sources said.
They said Poddar is a "history sheeter" and that he, along with his alleged associates like Das, is also wanted in cases related to land grabbing in West Bengal.
The sources claimed that Poddar's name came to light during a recent clash between two groups in Kolkata's Kankulia area.
Officials did not confirm whether the action was linked to the questioning of TMC MLA Debasish Kumar in Kolkata on Monday in an alleged land fraud case.
Kumar has been renominated from the Rashbehari seat in south Kolkata, which goes to polls in the second phase on April 29.
It is understood that the ED is investigating whether Kumar had any financial transactions with businessman Amit Gangopadhyay, whose property was recently searched by the ED.