ED Conducts Second Raid on Durgapur Police Officer Amid Coal Smuggling Investigation
Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has intensified its investigation into coal smuggling by raiding the residence of police officer Manoranjan Mondal in Durgapur, West Bengal. This marks the second raid as Mondal faces multiple summons for his alleged involvement in illicit activities.
Key Takeaways
Enforcement Directorate's Investigation: Focused on coal smuggling and corruption.
Manoranjan Mondal's Summons: Third summons issued by the ED.
Previous Raids: Mondal's residence was raided in February.
Chief Minister's Remarks: Highlighted police complicity in smuggling.
Potential Legal Action: Consequences for failing to appear before the ED.
Kolkata, March 11 (NationPress) In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted another raid on the residence of police officer Manoranjan Mondal in Durgapur, located in the West Burdwan district of West Bengal, related to the ongoing investigation into coal smuggling.
This marks the second time the ED has searched Mondal's home. Previously, the agency had raided his property on February 3 and interrogated him for several hours.
On Wednesday morning, central forces cordoned off Mondal’s residence in the City Centre area of Durgapur, initiating the search operation.
Upon their arrival, officials affixed a notice at the entrance instructing Manoranjan Mondal to report to the ED office on March 13 between 12 noon and 1 p.m.
This is the third time Mondal has been summoned in this case, having missed earlier appearances despite two prior summons.
During the raid, ED officials reportedly interrogated members of his family, although it remains uncertain whether Mondal was present during the operation.
Sources within the ED revealed that the agency is investigating Mondal’s purported involvement in the coal smuggling network. Investigators suspect he may have participated in the collection of “protection money” linked to illegal coal operations and allegedly received payments from individuals involved in the coal trade.
In February, the ED had also raided his residence when he had just been assigned as the Officer-in-Charge of Budbud police station, but he was swiftly removed from this position and transferred to the Special Branch before taking charge.
Mondal has a controversial history; he was suspended in 2024 on corruption charges. At that time, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made strong statements regarding coal smuggling, asserting that while allegations were directed at the Trinamool Congress, some members of the police and security forces were complicit in smuggling operations for financial gain.
Following the Chief Minister’s remarks, Mondal, then serving as the Officer-in-Charge of Barabani police station, was suspended, and a judicial inquiry was launched against him.
Currently, he finds himself back under investigation by the ED. Investigators have indicated that failure to comply with the latest summons may result in stringent legal measures against him.
Point of View
The ongoing investigation into coal smuggling involving police officer Manoranjan Mondal raises critical questions about corruption within law enforcement. The ED's actions reflect an urgent need for accountability among public officials, and the implications of this case could resonate widely across the political landscape in West Bengal.
NationPress
6 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED to raid Manoranjan Mondal's residence?
The raid is part of an investigation into coal smuggling, where Mondal is suspected of involvement in illegal operations and collecting protection money.
How many times has the ED summoned Manoranjan Mondal?
The ED has summoned Mondal three times, with two prior summons resulting in his absence.
What actions were taken against Mondal following his previous allegations?
Mondal was suspended from his position as Officer-in-Charge due to corruption charges and was transferred before assuming his new role.
What was Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's stance on the coal smuggling issue?
She condemned the involvement of certain police and security personnel in aiding coal smuggling for financial gain.
What could happen if Mondal fails to comply with the latest ED summons?
Failure to appear may lead to strict legal action against him.
