CBI resumes probe in WB coal smuggling case; Raids across 13 locations

CBI Resumes Probe in West Bengal Coal Smuggling Case; Raids Across 13 Locations

In a renewed push to unravel the complexities of the high-profile coal smuggling case in West Bengal, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched fresh raids on Thursday. The extensive search operations are being carried out at 13 locations, including the capital city Kolkata, as per sources from the central agency. Notably, key documents have already been seized during the ongoing raids at Bhawanipur, Durgapur, Kulti, Malda, and other significant locations.

The coal smuggling case has been under the CBI's scrutiny, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, and his wife Rujira having faced interrogations. The investigation revolves around allegations that the mastermind, Anoop Manjhi alias Lala, funneled crores of rupees obtained from smuggling to foreign countries through Hawala channels. Currently, Anoop Manjhi remains beyond the reach of the central agency. Another central figure in the smuggling, Vikas Mishra, has also fled the country, finding refuge on an island in the Pacific Ocean.

In response to new information received, the CBI has initiated the current round of raids. The search operation was ongoing till 12pm.