Sandeshkhali Case: Brother of TMC's Shahjahan Sheikh and two others sent to five-day CBI custody
Sandeshkhali Case: In a recent development, the Basirhat sub-divisional court has handed over Sheikh Alamgir, brother of suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shahjahan Sheikh, along with Sirajul Molla and Mafijul Molla to five days’ custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This decision comes after their arrest by the CBI for their alleged involvement in assaulting Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers during a raid in Sandeshkhali on January 5, as confirmed by local authorities.
Arrest and Investigation
The arrests of Alamgir and the two others came after an extensive interrogation by the CBI, who suspect their direct involvement in the attack on ED officials. It is believed that they not only participated in the assault but also incited a crowd to target the raiding team during their visit to Sheikh's premises.
Further Summons Issued
Additionally, the CBI has issued summons to seven more individuals in Sandeshkhali in connection with the assault on ED officers, as per insider sources. Sandeshkhali, a riverine island located approximately 80 kilometers from Kolkata, had garnered attention due to allegations of land-grabbing and sexual abuse involving Shahjahan Sheikh and his associates, who are engaged in fish farming and trading.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Shahjahan Sheikh was apprehended on February 29 after being on the run for 55 days following protests, primarily led by local women, accusing him of sexual atrocities and land grabbing. His disappearance ensued after a violent mob attacked the ED team that was investigating him for an alleged ration distribution scam on January 5.
Initially investigated by the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the case against Sheikh was later transferred to the CBI following an order from the Calcutta High Court. On March 10, the court granted CBI custody of Sheikh for four days, which was subsequently extended by an additional eight days until March 22.
Ongoing CBI Investigation
The CBI is currently probing three cases related to the events of January 5, particularly the attack on the ED team by a mob estimated to be around 1,000 strong. Notably, a former state minister has also been arrested in connection with the ration scam case, as part of the ongoing investigations.
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