Kolkata, 10 September (H.S.): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Kolkata has provisionally attached movable and immovable assets worth around ₹2.2 crore belonging to Sheikh Jinnar Ali, accused of extorting money from businessmen by impersonating an ED officer.

According to officials, the attached assets include 10 immovable properties located in East Burdwan district and funds parked in multiple bank accounts. The action was taken under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. In late August, the agency had already filed a prosecution complaint against Ali in a Special PMLA Court.

In a statement issued on Wednesday morning, the ED revealed that the probe was initiated on the basis of an FIR lodged at Bidhannagar South police station. Investigators found that the accused, along with associates, had conspired to extort money from a businessman by posing as ED officials. They allegedly contacted the victim over phone, issued fake summons, and even called him to the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate office to give legitimacy to their actions.

To appear authentic, the accused reportedly arrived in a Toyota Fortuner SUV bearing an ED insignia. They questioned the businessman about his financial dealings, raised concerns about alleged irregularities, and threatened immediate action from the ED and CBI. Under this pressure, the victim was forced to pay ₹1.3 crore in cash and deposit another ₹20 lakh into a bank account.

Ali was eventually arrested by the ED in July 2025 and remains in judicial custody. The agency continues to investigate the extent of the extortion racket and possible involvement of others.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh