ED Raids Uncover Multi-Crore Ration Distribution Scam in West Bengal

The Enforcement Directorate conducted simultaneous raids at ten locations in North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, as part of an investigation into a multi-crore ration distribution scam involving businessmen and TMC leaders. Arrests and evidence of involvement in gold and coal smuggling were also reported.

In a significant crackdown, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted simultaneous raids at ten locations in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on Tuesday. These raids are part of the ongoing investigation into a multi-crore ration distribution scam, an official confirmed.

The ED sleuths, supported by central forces, targeted residences, mills, and offices of businessmen and two Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders in Rajarhat, Barasat, Basirhat, Bhangar, and Deganga areas. Among the searched locations were rice and flour mills tied to the scam, including properties of two TMC leaders in Deganga.

In addition, the ED officers searched vehicles of a TMC leader linked to state forest minister Jyotipriyo Mallick, who has already been arrested for his involvement in the scam. The premises of a Basirhat businessman, previously arrested in 2014 for gold smuggling, were also raided. This businessman is suspected of investing large sums in the ration scam and related illicit activities.