Kolkata/Alive News: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached properties worth ₹2.78 crore belonging to former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas and his associates in connection with the Sona Pappu extortion and land-grabbing case.
According to the agency’s statement issued on Thursday, the attached assets include three flats in Kolkata and a plot of land in Kandi, Murshidabad. The action has been taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Searches Conducted at Multiple Locations
The ED began its investigation into allegations of extortion, murder and illegal land grabbing involving Sona Pappu and his associates. Searches were conducted in Kolkata and nearby areas on April 1, 19 and 26, and May 22.
The agency searched the residences and offices of Shantanu Sinha Biswas, promoter Joy Kamdar and Sona Pappu.
During the searches, investigators recovered ₹1.64 crore in cash, gold jewellery, a Toyota Fortuner, an illegal revolver and several documents and digital devices.
Three Arrested in Money Laundering Case
The ED arrested Joy Kamdar, Sona Pappu and former police officer Shantanu Sinha Biswas in connection with the case. A chargesheet has also been filed against them.
The agency alleged that Shantanu developed close links with Joy Kamdar while serving as the officer-in-charge of Kalighat police station. Their relationship allegedly continued after Shantanu became a Deputy Commissioner.
ED Alleges Misuse of Police Influence
According to the ED, Joy used Shantanu’s police influence to facilitate land grabbing and intimidate property owners. The agency alleged that Joy and Sona Pappu threatened people, took control of their properties and paid them nominal amounts.
The ED further claimed that Shantanu had acquired or controlled suspected proceeds of crime worth at least ₹2.89 crore. Investigators alleged that properties were purchased through relatives, associates and other entities to conceal their actual ownership.
