The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a large-scale crackdown on an alleged sand smuggling racket in West Bengal. In a coordinated operation that began in the early hours of the morning, multiple ED teams, supported by central armed forces, conducted simultaneous raids at several key locations across the state, including Jhargram and Behala.
Key Targets and Locations:
The investigation focuses on a network of individuals and companies suspected of illegally mining and trading sand, bypassing government regulations and revenue channels. The raids are part of the ED’s broader efforts to dismantle the financial infrastructure of this illicit trade.
Jhargram
A primary focus of the operation was the district of Jhargram, a region known for its sand-rich riverbeds. In Gopiballavpur, ED officials raided the luxurious three-storey residence of Sheikh Jahirul Ali, a businessman with a long-standing history in the sand trade. His property, strategically located on the banks of the Subarnarekha river, is believed to be a central point for his operations. According to sources, Jahirul, a former village police officer, transitioned into the sand business, amassing considerable wealth.
Beliatore, Bankura District
Another target in the district was the home of sand trader Ananta Bera in Bhamal village, located under the Beliatore police station. The raid on Ananta Bera’s property is particularly significant, as his son, Amarjit Bera, was previously arrested by Nayagram police on May 2 on charges of illegal mining and related offenses. This earlier arrest provided crucial intelligence that has likely led to the current ED action.
Behala and Salt Lake
In a parallel operation, an ED team descended on a property on James Long Sarani in Behala, which houses the office of a company named DG Mining. This company is reportedly deeply involved in the sand trade and is under scrutiny for its business practices. The company also maintains a second office in Salt Lake, Sector V, suggesting a widespread network. The raids aim to seize incriminating documents, digital records, and financial assets that could prove the scale of the illegal sand business and trace the money trail.
Broader Context of the Investigation
The raids are a part of a wider investigation into rampant illegal sand mining that has plagued the state for years. Authorities believe this illicit trade has led to significant revenue loss for the state government and caused severe environmental damage. The ED’s involvement signifies a shift to a more aggressive, multi-agency approach to combatting the issue. The deployment of at least 4-5 teams from the ED, including those from its Kolkata unit, indicates the seriousness of the investigation and the extensive groundwork that has gone into identifying the key players in the racket. The presence of central forces ensured a smooth and secure operation, preventing any obstruction from locals or suspects.
The investigation is expected to unearth a complex web of financial transactions, shell companies, and individuals involved in the illegal sand trade, which could lead to further arrests and asset seizures in the coming days.