Kolkata, 01 April (H.S.) – The Kolkata Police have launched an investigation into a series of robberies targeting city-based businessmen, suspecting the involvement of a notorious interstate gang. According to police sources, these crimes, which have followed a similar pattern over the past two months, are linked to Mumbai’s infamous Irani Gang, known for orchestrating frauds and robberies.
The gang operates by impersonating officials from central agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax Department. Disguised as enforcement officers, they conduct fake raids at the homes, offices, and shops of businessmen, seizing cash and valuables before fleeing. To make the operation appear legitimate, they even make the victims sign fake seizure lists, giving the illusion of an official legal procedure.
In some cases, the fraudsters have targeted traders or their staff on their way to banks, stopping them mid-route under the pretense of an investigation. Using fabricated documents and false accusations, they confiscate large sums of money and leave behind counterfeit seizure receipts.
The most recent case occurred on March 27, when an employee of a jewelry store in Cotton Street was en route to deliver ornaments worth ₹33 lakh. He was intercepted by three unidentified individuals claiming to be CBI officers. Accusing him of carrying gold made from smuggled sources, they seized the consignment and disappeared.
Similar robberies have been reported in areas like Jorasanko, Hare Street, and Bidhannagar over the past two months, leading investigators to believe that the same gang is behind all these incidents.
In response to the increasing cases, Kolkata Police have issued an official advisory for businessmen and the general public. The police have urged citizens to be vigilant and verify the authenticity of any raid before complying with demands from individuals claiming to be government officials.
If any raid or search operation is conducted at a home, office, or shop, immediately contact the local police station or control room to confirm its legitimacy.
If stopped on the road for a so-called investigation, insist that the officers accompany you to the nearest police station.
If they refuse, immediately call the police control room and report the situation.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh