ED conducts searches linked to builder ‘Sona Pappu’ and associate Rahul Das in Kolkata

In a significant development ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out coordinated raids in the Ballygunge area of South Kolkata on Wednesday. The central investigative agency searched six locations linked to a local builder known as ‘Sona Pappu’ and his close associate Rahul Das. The operation is part of an ongoing probe into allegations of illegal construction activities, forcible land acquisition, and large-scale extortion.

One of the primary search locations included an opulent residence on Fern Road allegedly belonging to Sona Pappu. Simultaneously, officials also conducted searches at premises on Kakulia Road associated with Rahul Das. The coordinated raids were aimed at gathering evidence related to suspected financial irregularities running into crores of rupees, believed to be connected to a network operating under the cover of real estate development.

Investigative sources indicate that Sona Pappu allegedly ran a syndicate that exerted pressure on landowners and rival builders. The group is suspected of using intimidation tactics to acquire land parcels and extract large payments from developers seeking to carry out construction projects in the area. Authorities are examining documents, financial records, and digital evidence seized during the searches.

The probe has also drawn attention due to allegations that a portion of the illegal proceeds was routed to several influential political figures in the state. Officials are analysing financial trails to determine the possible flow of funds and any links to political networks. The ED’s ongoing operation is expected to play a significant role in uncovering the scale of the alleged syndicate’s activities.