ED raids linked to PDS scam
The searches are part of an ongoing money laundering investigation into an alleged scam in the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Nine premises belonging to suppliers and exporters were raided across Kolkata, Burdwan, and Habra.
FIR traces origins to 2020 complaint
The money laundering case stems from a First Information Report (FIR) registered by Basirhat Police in October 2020.
The FIR was based on a complaint alleging large-scale diversion of wheat meant for welfare schemes.
The complaint was filed by a deputy commissioner at the land customs station in Ghojadanga.
Wheat diversion and stockpiling alleged
According to the ED, a significant quantity of wheat was procured at low cost from multiple sources, including suppliers, distributors, dealers, and middlemen.
The agency alleges that the stock was diverted from the official supply chain and illegally stockpiled at various locations.
Arrest of Jyotipriya Mallick
Former West Bengal Food and Supplies Minister Jyotipriya Mallick was earlier arrested by the ED in connection with the case.
Mallick, who is currently contesting the Assembly elections from Habra, was taken into custody along with several others as part of the ongoing probe.
Phase 2 elections on Apr 29
The second and last phase of the assembly elections will be held on April 29.