Who are the three newly arrested for vandalism at the Messi event in Kolkata?
Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Kolkata Police have arrested three more individuals linked to the vandalism at the Messi event. With the total number of arrests escalating, investigations are revealing potential financial irregularities surrounding the event.
Key Takeaways
Three additional arrests bring the total to eight.
The main organizer, Shatadru Dutta, is already in custody.
Investigators are looking into financial irregularities tied to ticket pricing.
The Enforcement Directorate may get involved if financial misconduct is confirmed.
Authorities have responded to show-cause notices regarding event management.
Kolkata, Dec 19 (NationPress) Three additional individuals were detained by the Kolkata Police on Friday in connection with the vandalism that took place at Salt Lake Stadium following severe mismanagement during an event featuring Argentine soccer superstar Lionel Messi last week.
This brings the total number of arrests related to the vandalism to eight.
Earlier, the main organizer of the event, Shatadru Dutta, was also apprehended on the same day as the incident on December 13.
The three newly arrested individuals are expected to be presented in a lower court later today, where the public prosecutor will request their police custody.
Meanwhile, members of the Kolkata police's special investigation team visited Dutta's residence in Rishra, located in the Hooghly district. They spoke with the household staff and conducted a thorough search of the property.
However, no items were reported seized during their inspection. The investigation team declined to comment to the press upon their departure. “The process is currently under investigation, and we cannot disclose any information at this time,” stated the investigating officer.
Sources familiar with the situation indicated that significant financial irregularities, particularly concerning the inflated ticket prices for the event, are being examined.
If proven true, it is likely that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) may take over the investigation, as they have the jurisdiction to initiate a suo motu probe into financial irregularities, especially regarding money laundering under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
On Thursday, the state's Principal Secretary for Sports, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, the Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Mukesh Kumar responded to the state government regarding the show-cause notices issued over the mismanagement and the subsequent vandalism at the stadium last week.
Point of View
I believe this incident not only highlights the challenges of organizing large-scale events but also raises questions about accountability and financial oversight. The ongoing investigation should provide clarity and justice for those affected.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the three new arrests made?
The arrests were made due to their alleged involvement in the vandalism that occurred at the Messi event in Kolkata.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with police looking into potential financial irregularities related to the event.
Who is Shatadru Dutta?
Shatadru Dutta is the principal organizer of the event who was arrested on the day of the incident.
