North 24 Parganas, 16 July (H.S.): The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), assisted by central security forces, conducted a raid on the residence of Trinamool Congress leader Abdulla Gazi in Rameshwarpur under Hasnabad on Thursday morning in connection with an investigation into alleged foreign funding received in the name of madrasa construction.

According to investigative sources, large sums of money were allegedly transferred from foreign sources to Gazi's bank account for the construction of madrasas. Investigators are examining the source of the funds, financial transactions and their utilisation, amid allegations of financial irregularities and possible terror links.

Sources said Abdulla Gazi had earlier been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh ATS in the same case about two years ago, and the investigation is still underway. Fresh inputs reportedly prompted the agency to carry out another search and question the TMC leader.

The area was cordoned off by central security personnel during the operation, while local police and administrative officials remained deployed at the spot. Sources also claimed that officials of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) participated in the search operation alongside the UP ATS.

Apart from Hasnabad, simultaneous searches were reportedly conducted at several other locations in West Bengal, including Haroa.

The raid created a stir in the area, with a large number of curious residents gathering near the site. However, the Uttar Pradesh ATS has not yet issued any official statement regarding the operation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey