Birbhum (West Bengal): A major police operation in West Bengal’s Birbhum district has led to the recovery of nearly ₹29 crore in cash and 15 kilograms of gold from the residence of a former bus driver. Following the massive seizure of cash and valuables, police and investigating agencies have launched an extensive probe to determine the source of the assets and identify the network allegedly linked to them. Preliminary investigation has indicated possible connections with an alleged illegal syndicate.
According to police officials, the operation was carried out at the residence of Minar Mondal in the Deucha area of Mohammad Bazar in Birbhum district. The search began late Tuesday night and continued until Wednesday evening. Officials took more than 18 hours to complete the counting of the recovered cash due to the huge volume of currency notes. Five cash-counting machines were used during the process.
Investigators said that around ₹28.5 crore in cash and 15 kilograms of gold were recovered from the premises. The cash was reportedly stored in 35 nylon bags, with bundles of currency found stacked in different parts of the house, including near walls and inside rooms. The recovery of such a large amount of unaccounted wealth has raised serious questions, prompting authorities to investigate possible financial irregularities and illegal activities.
Following the raid, police arrested Minar Mondal. During questioning, he allegedly told investigators that the recovered cash and gold belonged to his relative Tulu Mondal. Tulu Mondal is reportedly a stone trader from Birbhum and has been described as a close associate of former Trinamool Congress leader Anubrata Mondal.
Investigating agencies are now trying to establish how the seized assets were accumulated and who were involved in managing the alleged network. Police are examining financial transactions, property records, bank accounts and the possible role of other individuals connected with the suspected syndicate. Authorities are also looking into whether Minar Mondal’s residence was being used for storing money or facilitating illegal activities.
The alleged political links surrounding the case have also drawn attention during the investigation. Tulu Mondal was earlier considered close to Anubrata Mondal, who served as the Trinamool Congress district president in Birbhum for more than a decade and was regarded as an influential political figure in the region. However, officials have clarified that the allegations and links will be established only after a detailed investigation and verification of evidence.
Police officials said efforts are underway to identify the actual owner of the recovered cash and gold, trace the source of the assets and determine how they were being used. Investigators are also examining whether the suspected network has links with illegal businesses, financial manipulation or any other organised activities.
The state government has described the action as part of a strict crackdown against corruption and illegal networks. The Chief Minister, through a social media post, praised the police operation and stated that those involved in misappropriation of public money would face legal action.
At present, the seized cash and gold have been taken into custody, and further investigation is underway. Agencies are analysing the accused’s contacts, financial records and possible connections with other individuals involved in the alleged syndicate. Officials said that if additional names emerge during the investigation, further legal action will be initiated against those found involved.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
