The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday carried out raids at multiple locations across West Bengal in connection with an alleged extortion and land-grabbing racket linked to former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Santanu Sinha Biswas. The searches were conducted as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
According to officials, the operation began early in the morning and covered premises in Kolkata and Murshidabad. The investigation focuses on an alleged syndicate accused of extorting real estate developers, manipulating land transactions, and intimidating businessmen through criminal networks and alleged misuse of police influence.
ED Expands Probe Into Alleged Extortion Syndicate
Investigators suspect that the alleged racket was operated by businessman Joy Kamdar along with Biswajit Poddar, also known as “Sona Pappu,” and others. The ED believes the group used intimidation tactics and criminal pressure to force landowners and builders into transactions on unfavorable terms.
The agency is also examining the alleged role of former DCP Santanu Sinha Biswas, who was arrested by the ED earlier this month after prolonged questioning. Officials have alleged that he used his position and influence within the police system to support the activities of the syndicate.
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Multiple Locations Searched Across Bengal
The raids targeted residential and commercial properties linked to individuals associated with the investigation. Officials reportedly seized documents, digital devices, and financial records during the searches.
The ED had earlier conducted searches at properties linked to Santanu Sinha Biswas and businessman Joy Kamdar as part of the same probe. Authorities are now tracing financial transactions and property deals allegedly connected to the suspected extortion network.
Investigators are also examining allegations that victims who resisted pressure from the syndicate faced threats, false complaints, and delays in administrative processes linked to land and construction activities.
Arrests and Financial Irregularities Under Scrutiny
Biswajit Poddar alias “Sona Pappu,” described by investigators as a history-sheeter, was arrested earlier this week in the land-grab case after several hours of questioning by the ED. He denied the allegations and claimed he had no involvement in extortion or real estate dealings.
Court proceedings in the case have also highlighted alleged financial irregularities linked to Santanu Sinha Biswas and his family. According to ED submissions before the court, investigators found digital evidence, banking records, and chats allegedly connecting the accused individuals.
However, lawyers representing Biswas have denied all allegations, arguing that the assets under scrutiny were inherited and rejecting claims of criminal involvement.
Administrative Action Follows Arrest
Following his arrest, Kolkata Police terminated the extended tenure of Santanu Sinha Biswas from his position in the Security Branch. The move came amid growing scrutiny over the alleged land-grabbing and extortion network.
The ED investigation remains ongoing, and officials are continuing to examine financial records, digital evidence, and links between the accused persons and alleged illegal land transactions across the state.
