THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Feb 23: In its ongoing probe in connection with the alleged Public Distribution System (PDS) scam against Trinamool Congress politician Sheikh Shahjahan, who has been absconding, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) began conducting searches at approximately six locations in West Bengal on Friday morning.
These raids occur one day after Shahjahan was sent a new summons by the agency to participate in an inquiry on February 29.
The search operation was started by ED officials early in the morning, accompanied by central forces.
The current raids are a part of an ongoing investigation into the state’s purported ration scam, and Jyotipriya Mallick, the former minister of food and civil supplies, is already arrested. Mallick is still incarcerated after being detained in October 2023 in relation to the scam.
Also Read- Jharkhand HC lifts stay on CBI probe into illegal mining in Sahibganj
ED officers assaulted during last raid on Shahjahan
Two distinct raids were carried out by the federal agency last month in relation to the case at various locations on different dates. One of the locations encompassed Shahjahan’s dwelling in Sandeshkhali.
During a search operation on January 5, ED officials were assaulted while en route to conduct raids at the residences of Shahjahan and fellow TMC leader Shankar Adhya in North 24 Parganas district. Approximately 200 locals, suspected to be supporters of the TMC leader, surrounded the officials and armed paramilitary forces, obstructing them from raiding Shahjahan’s residence. Two ED officials sustained injuries during the incident.
Both state police and Central authorities are unable to track down Shahjahan, who is still eluding capture since the incident.
