Lagatar24 Desk
Kolkata: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a major crackdown on West Bengal’s illegal sand mining syndicate on September 8, carrying out raids at 22 locations linked to the network in Kolkata, Jhargram, Paschim Medinipur, and North 24 Parganas.
Focus on Jhargram’s Alleged Kingpin
According to officials, the ED’s primary target was Sheikh Zahirul Ali of Gopiballabhpur in Jhargram, believed to be one of the main operators of the sand syndicate. The agency raided his three-storey residence and office under heavy security cover provided by paramilitary forces. Simultaneous raids were also conducted in Nadia, Behala, Salt Lake Sector V, and Regent Park, where associates of the syndicate are based.
Arrests, Cash, and Documents Seized
During the raids, ED officials uncovered documents related to illegal transactions, cash flows, and property holdings. In Bhamal village of Jhargram, the house of another sand trader, Anant Bera, was raided. His son, Amarjit Bera, was arrested. Sources revealed that the agency is also investigating the laundering of black money generated from the illicit trade, which is suspected to have been funneled into real estate, insurance companies, and other businesses through fake bills and shell firms.
Crores in Assets Under Scanner
Preliminary findings suggest that West Bengal’s sand mafia has amassed billions of rupees in black money through illegal mining. The ED reportedly seized large quantities of cash, gold ornaments, and property documents during the searches, though no official statement has been issued yet. Officials indicated that a detailed update would be released after the raids conclude.
