The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has detained Manoranjan Mondal, a former police officer, as part of its investigation into a money laundering scheme associated with alleged coal smuggling in West Bengal. A senior ED official confirmed the arrest on Friday, noting that Mondal had been under scrutiny for a significant amount of time prior to his detention.

Mondal, who previously served as the officer-in-charge of the Barabani police station, was taken into custody late on Thursday after several hours of questioning at the ED office located in the CGO Complex in Salt Lake. In 2024, he was suspended due to separate claims of corruption.

According to the ED officials, Mondal allegedly avoided responding to numerous summonses issued throughout the ongoing investigation. Their inquiry revealed inconsistencies in his statements during questioning, leading them to doubt his explanations regarding specific financial transactions under investigation.

Connection to Coal Smuggling Network

The arrest of Mondal is directly tied to the ED’s extensive probe into an alleged coal smuggling network that reportedly operated with the backing of public servants and members of the coal mafia. Investigators maintain that Mondal played a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of illicit funds related to this operation and had established connections with individuals engaged in the coal trade.

An ED official stated, “Our investigation has uncovered financial trails that necessitate a comprehensive examination. Particular bank transactions and movements of funds linked to the accused are currently under review.” The claims have raised questions concerning multiple accounts allegedly associated with Mondal, showcasing significant sums deposited during the inquiry period.

Previously, Mondal had been summoned multiple times to provide evidence but failed to appear. In March of this year, ED teams conducted searches at his residence in Durgapur as part of efforts to locate him. Investigators reportedly posted notices at the premises as they were unsuccessful in their attempts to find him at that time.

Wider Implications of the Investigation

The ED has raised concerns that the coal smuggling network flourished due to a collaborative effort involving local operatives and protection from influential figures. The agency continues to scrutinise the suspected flow of illegal funds and the roles of various individuals linked to the case, which has led to several arrests and extensive searches over the last few years.

The recent detention of Mondal represents a significant development in the ED’s broader investigation into the alleged laundering of proceeds derived from illegal coal extraction and transportation activities in West Bengal. The agency has made strides in piecing together evidence that could implicate numerous parties involved in the operation.

While investigations are ongoing, the ED has expressed determination in uncovering all those implicated in the scheme. The agency aims to establish a clearer understanding of the network dynamics and to hold accountable various individuals purportedly benefiting from these illicit operations.

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