Kolkata police on Wednesday arrested Sujit Kumar Pal, also known as Bachchan, from Kolkata airport. Pal is the right-hand man of Kasba councillor Sushanta Ghosh, who is currently absconding. Cops have formed multiple teams to conduct raids to nab Ghosh.
Background of the Case
Ghosh, the Trinamool Congress councillor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) ward 108, went missing with his family shortly after several hawkers' committee members lodged an extortion complaint against him. The investigation has revealed an alleged extortion racket centered around the Ruby crossing, where Ghosh allegedly amassed Rs 3 crore by unlawfully setting up shops. Investigators suspect the wider racket has made illegal collections over the last several years.
Bachchan's Role and Wealth
Cops are now banking on Bachchan's arrest to achieve a breakthrough. Known as Ghosh's key associate, Bachchan's wealth skyrocketed within a span of two years. Cops revealed he acquired five premium plots, four flats, and luxury phones, alongside asserting immense clout by running illegal shop allotments and evictions in the Anandapur jurisdiction.
After his arrest, Bachchan was attacked with eggs by locals outside Anandapur Police Station. Locals claimed he illegally turned a property meant to house the poor into a guest house.
Investigation and Tracking
Sources said Bachchan has been in regular phone contact with Ghosh, and cyber cells are analyzing Bachchan's phone logs to track the councillor. Police are hopeful that this arrest will lead to Ghosh's capture.
