Two TMC leaders linked to Sheikh Shahjahan arrested over attack on ED officials in Sandeshkhali

Police arrested two Trinamool Congress women leaders in Sandeshkhali in connection with the attack on Enforcement Directorate officials and central force personnel that took place outside the residence of Sheikh Shahjahan last year. The arrested leaders were identified as Sabita Roy, president of the Sandeshkhali-1 Panchayat Samiti and chairperson of the Basirhat organisational district Trinamool Congress, and Mithu Sardar, another local TMC leader considered close to Shahjahan.

According to police sources, the arrests were made after the investigation into the Sandeshkhali incident intensified following the change of government in the state. Investigators alleged that both leaders actively instigated and supported the violent attack that occurred on January 5 last year outside Shahjahan’s residence in Sarberia, Sandeshkhali. Police claimed the attack involved assault on ED officials and central force personnel using sticks and sharp weapons.

Investigators stated that the allegations against the arrested leaders extended beyond the attack on central agency officials. Police sources alleged that Mithu Sardar also faced accusations related to post-poll violence following the 2021 Assembly elections, including allegations of attacks on opposition workers, vandalism of houses and intimidation in the area after election results were declared. Local residents alleged that the two leaders exercised influence in the locality under Shahjahan’s protection for an extended period.

Police sources stated that the arrested leaders would be produced before court and custody would be sought for further interrogation. Officials did not publicly comment on the investigation when approached regarding the arrests and developments in the case. According to investigators, the probe was examining the alleged roles of the accused in incidents linked to both post-poll violence and the attack on central agency officials in Sandeshkhali.