ED conducts multiple raids across Bengal:Searches in Kolkata, Habra, Bardhaman over financial irregularities case, rice traders under scanner

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday conducted searches at multiple locations across West Bengal, including Kolkata, Habra, and Bardhaman, in connection with an alleged financial irregularities case involving rice traders.

ED teams conduct early morning raids

According to sources, ED teams carried out raids at several premises in Habra, covering at least four locations linked to rice traders. Searches were conducted at residences, shops, and warehouses of individuals identified as Sagar Saha, Partha Saha, Rajib Saha, and Samir Chandra.

Rice traders come under investigation scanner

Officials said multiple teams left the CGO Complex in Kolkata early in the morning and split into separate groups upon reaching Habra to conduct simultaneous operations. Central forces accompanied the officials during the searches.

Financial irregularities case triggers investigation action

Sources indicated that all those under scrutiny are involved in the rice trade and are being investigated for alleged financial misappropriation. Similar searches were also conducted at locations in Kolkata and Bardhaman. The development comes amid heightened political activity in the state ahead of the Assembly elections, with the ED actively pursuing several cases in recent weeks.

Political reactions surface amid ongoing probes

The ruling Trinamool Congress has repeatedly alleged that central agencies are being used to target opposition-linked individuals ahead of polls. However, officials maintain that the action is part of ongoing investigations.

This article has been republished from The Bhaskar English.