New Delhi/ Kolkata, April 1 The Enforcement Directorate seized approximately ₹1.2 crore in cash during searches in Kolkata as part of a money laundering investigation against an alleged criminal syndicate, officials said.
The action is being taken in the case against Biswajit Poddar, also known as 'Sona Pappu', who has been booked on charges of attempted murder and extortion, they said.
The ED's action comes amidst the two-phase assembly elections in the state, scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
"The operation is part of an ongoing investigation into financial irregularities related to illegal land grabbing and unauthorized construction," an official said, adding that the action is being taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Approximately eight premises, including the residence and commercial premises of Poddar in the Ballygunge area, and those 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 on the run, they said.
"He is a fugitive and has been named in several cases. Efforts are being made to locate him," the official said.
Approximately ₹1.2 crore in cash has been seized from one location, officials said, adding that all the cash is in ₹500 denominations.
Besides, a country-made pistol has been seized from Poddar's premises, who enjoyed political patronage, they said.
Poddar's name had previously surfaced in connection with a firing and bombing incident on Kankulia Road near Golpark.
He is known as 'Sona Pappu' because his family is involved 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 appeared in a 2015 clash over territorial control at the Ballygunge railway yard and later in a 2017 murder case.