Kolkata, 29 July (H.S.): A late-night police raid at the residence of a relative of stone trader Tulu Mondal in Birbhum district has created a stir after a large quantity of cash and gold was allegedly found. However, police have not officially confirmed the recovery so far.

According to sources, the police cordoned off the residence of Minar Mondal, a relative of Tulu Mondal, late Tuesday night and launched a search operation. The search continued until Wednesday morning.

Sources claimed that a large number of bundles of currency notes were found inside the house. Five cash-counting machines were reportedly brought to the spot to count the money, while two large trunks were also brought to transport the recovered cash.

Unconfirmed reports claimed that around Rs 30-32 crore in cash and 8-10 kg of gold were recovered during the search. However, police have neither officially confirmed these figures nor issued any formal statement regarding the alleged recovery.

According to local residents, Minar Mondal works as a government bus driver and is also allegedly involved in the stone business. He is reportedly associated with the operation of several stone mines linked to Tulu Mondal.

Investigators are reportedly looking into the source of the alleged cash and gold and whether the assets are linked to any illegal activities.

Tulu Mondal is a prominent name in Birbhum’s stone business. He was once considered close to Trinamool Congress leader Anubrata Mondal. Tulu has previously faced allegations of illegal stone mining. In 2022, during the investigation into the cattle smuggling case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had also conducted searches at his residence and office.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded a fair and comprehensive investigation into the matter.

BJP MLA from Sainthia Krishnakanta Saha said that if the money is found to be linked to corruption, the matter should be thoroughly investigated and strict action taken against those responsible. He also said that any money established to have been illegally acquired should ultimately be utilised in the public interest, in accordance with law.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey