Kolkata: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned IPS officer Gaurav Lal and businessman Joy Kamdar in connection with its ongoing probe into alleged illegal syndicate operations linked to Biswajit Poddar, also known as “Sona Pappu”.
The development comes after a series of raids conducted by the central agency earlier this month across multiple locations in Kolkata.
ED Raids: Cash, Jewellery, Vehicle Seized
According to ED officials, searches were carried out at eight locations on April 1, including the residence of Sona Pappu and premises linked to businessman Joy Kamdar.
During the raids, the agency recovered –
- ₹1.47 crore in cash
- Gold and silver jewellery worth ₹67.64 lakh
- A Toyota Fortuner vehicle allegedly used by Sona Pappu
- A revolver marked ‘Made in USA’, later handed over to police
Officials stated that the seizure of arms was crucial to ensure free and fair Assembly elections in West Bengal.
Who is Sona Pappu?
Biswajit Poddar, alias Sona Pappu, is alleged to run multiple syndicates across areas such as Kasba and Ballygunge in Kolkata.
He is currently absconding and faces multiple FIRs filed by West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police under provisions of:
- Indian Penal Code
- Arms Act, 1959
He is also linked to incidents such as the Kankulia clash and Rabindra Sarovar case, and faces allegations of:
- Extortion
- Criminal intimidation
- Money laundering
Despite ED summons, he has not appeared before investigators and has instead made claims on social media alleging harassment of his family during raids.
Why IPS Gaurav Lal Was Summoned
Sources indicate that IPS officer Gaurav Lal has been called for questioning as part of the broader investigation into the syndicate network and related financial transactions.
His role is being examined in the context of administrative and policing aspects linked to the case.
Who is IPS Gaurav Lal?
Gaurav Lal is a 2011-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the West Bengal cadre.
Current Role
- Joint Commissioner of Police (JCP), Howrah Police Commissionerate (as of April 2026)
Previous Positions
- Deputy Commissioner, Kolkata Police
- Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Industrial, Hooghly
- ASP (Headquarters), North 24 Parganas
He has held several key operational and administrative roles within the West Bengal Police.
Investigation Based on Multiple FIRs
The ED initiated its probe based on several FIRs registered by state police authorities against Sona Pappu.
Officials said the investigation is focused on uncovering:
- Illegal financial transactions
- Syndicate operations
- Possible money laundering links
Probe Intensifies Ahead of Elections
The developments come at a time when agencies are tightening surveillance and enforcement measures ahead of upcoming elections in the state.
Authorities emphasized that action is being taken to ensure transparency, law enforcement integrity, and prevention of criminal influence in the electoral process.
