Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Apr 27: The Directorate of Enforcement has intensified its investigation into a major money laundering case in West Bengal, uncovering a complex network of shell companies and financial transactions.

Officials from the agency’s Kolkata Zonal Office carried out searches on April 26 at three locations linked to Kalyan Shukla and Sanjay Kumar Kanodia. The raids resulted in the seizure of Rs 10 lakh in cash, gold jewellery, and several digital devices along with documents believed to contain crucial evidence.

According to the agency, the recovered materials point to extensive cash dealings involving key suspects and individuals described as politically exposed persons.

The investigation centres on Jay S Kamdar, who was arrested on April 19 and remains in custody following orders from a special court under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He is suspected to be the main operator behind a large-scale hawala network facilitating both domestic and international financial transactions through shell entities.

Further findings suggest that Kamdar allegedly diverted over Rs 40 crore from a Kolkata-based educational trust. Authorities are also examining his alleged links with Sona Pappu, also known as Biswajit Poddar. Investigators believe Kamdar may have supplied firearms to Poddar’s wife, Soma Sonar Poddar, though details remain unclear.

The case has also raised concerns about possible collusion within law enforcement. The agency has identified alleged links between Kamdar and several police officials, including Santanu Sinha Biswas. It is suspected that gifts and favours were provided to influence officials and manipulate cases, particularly those involving high-value property disputes.

Earlier this month, investigators searched the residence of the senior police officer, who has reportedly not appeared before authorities despite multiple summons.

The current investigation follows earlier searches on April 1, during which officials seized around Rs 1.47 crore in cash, precious metals worth over Rs 67 lakh, a luxury vehicle, and an unlicensed firearm.

Authorities have also identified multiple properties suspected to have been acquired through ??????? activities such as extortion, illegal construction, and forcible land acquisition.

With digital evidence now under examination, the Enforcement Directorate indicated that further arrests and attachment of assets are likely as the probe into the extensive financial network continues.