Kolkata, 04 August (H.S.) : The investigation into the alleged illegal stone mining network linked to Birbhum-based businessman Tulu Mondal has intensified, with the district police claiming that cash and assets worth nearly ₹220 crore have been frozen so far. Investigators also claim to have made fresh discoveries following the arrest of Mondal's business manager, Sitesh Pramanik.

Acting on a tip-off, Birbhum Police arrested Pramanik late on Sunday night. He was produced before a Siuri court on Monday, which remanded him to seven days of police custody for further interrogation.

Government counsel Bibhas Chattopadhyay said on Tuesday that investigators recovered a diary from Pramanik during questioning. According to the prosecution, the diary contains the names of several administrative officials. Police also claimed to have seized a machine allegedly used to print fake Demand Collection Receipts (DCRs), which investigators believe were used to facilitate the illegal transportation and smuggling of stone.

Tulu Mondal has long been accused of running an illegal stone mining and trading network. Investigating officers suspect that certain police and administrative officials may have assisted the operation. Following the recovery of the diary, police have begun examining the alleged links between those named in the document and the suspected illegal activities.

According to district police, Mondal continued to operate his business despite staying abroad. Investigators have also claimed that the fake DCR racket remains active.

The case gained momentum on July 24, when officials of the Land and Revenue Department detected a suspected forged DCR while inspecting documents of a stone-laden dumper in the Mohammad Bazar police station area. The DCR number produced by the driver reportedly did not match official government records. Based on a complaint filed by the department, a case was registered at Mohammad Bazar Police Station. Police have indicated that Mondal may also be named as an accused in this case.

Earlier, the West Bengal government had described the matter as a serious case involving the alleged misuse of government resources, resulting in substantial revenue losses to the state. The government had also disclosed details of cash, gold, documents, and other assets seized from premises linked to Mondal and his relative, Minar.

The Superintendent of Police, Birbhum, has now confirmed that cash and properties worth approximately ₹220 crore have been frozen during the investigation. Police said the probe is continuing and that further revelations are expected based on the examination of recovered documents and digital evidence.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh