ED questions former Jhargram ADM in sand smuggling probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into an alleged sand smuggling racket in Jhargram by summoning a senior West Bengal Civil Service (WBCS) officer for questioning at the CGO Complex in Salt Lake. The official, identified as former Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Jhargram Ansar Sheikh, appeared before the agency on Wednesday morning in connection with the ongoing probe into the sand, or “bali,” scam.

According to investigators, large-scale illegal sand extraction and the operation of a smuggling network allegedly took place during Sheikh’s tenure as ADM in Jhargram. The ED has claimed that riverbeds were extensively exploited for sand mining without proper authorization, while parts of the local administration allegedly failed to take action against the activities.

Officials said the agency is currently examining multiple government documents and financial records linked to the case. Sheikh is being questioned based on these materials as part of efforts to trace the operational structure and financial transactions connected to the alleged racket.

The ED had earlier conducted searches at several locations linked to the sand smuggling network and seized digital data and bank account details. Investigators are now analysing these records to trace the flow of money and identify other individuals allegedly involved in the operation.