ED Cracks Down on Kolkata Crime Syndicate Amid Polls

The Enforcement Directorate seized about Rs 1.2 crore in cash during a series of raids in Kolkata on Wednesday. This action is part of a money laundering investigation targeting an alleged crime syndicate led by Biswajit Poddar, also known as 'Sona Pappu', officials reported.

The crackdown comes amid the two-phase assembly polls scheduled for April 23 and 29. It targets financial discrepancies connected to illegal land grabs and unauthorized constructions, as per officials. Raids covered eight locations, including Poddar's properties and those linked to associates Babu Sona, Sun Group, and Jay Kamdar.

Officials also confiscated a country-made pistol from Poddar’s premises. Known for his alleged criminal activities, Poddar remains at large, with multiple charges, including attempted murder and extortion, pending against him. He had previously surfaced in high-profile incidents, escalating tensions in Kolkata's Kasba and Topsia areas.