New Delhi, April 1 The Enforcement Directorate seized approximately Rs 1.2 crore in cash during searches in Kolkata as part of a money laundering investigation against an alleged criminal and a related syndicate, official sources said.
The action is being taken in the case against Biswajit Poddar, also known as Sona Pappu, who is accused of attempted murder and extortion, the sources said.
The ED's action comes amidst the two-phase assembly elections in West Bengal, which are scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
Approximately Rs 1.2 crore in cash was seized from one location, the sources said, adding that all the cash is in Rs 500 denomination. In addition, a locally made pistol was seized from the premises of Poddar, who had political connections, they said.
Searches are being conducted at about eight locations, including the residence and commercial premises of Poddar in the Ballygunge area, as well as those of Babu Sona alias Rahul Das, Sun Group, and Jay Kamdar, the sources said.
The action is being taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).