In a major law enforcement operation that has sent ripples across Tripura, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted coordinated raids across four locations in West Tripura and Sepahijala districts on Tuesday morning. The raids target individuals allegedly involved in financial irregularities, money laundering, and illegal land dealings.
The operation, carried out with security support from Central paramilitary forces, focused on the residences of four individuals suspected of accumulating assets disproportionate to their known sources of income. While the ED has not yet issued an official statement, sources indicate that the searches form part of a larger investigation into multiple fraud cases.
Locations and Individuals Targeted
The targeted locations included:
- Mihir Debnath – residence near Nabajagaran Sangha, Badharghat
- Smt. Mampi Ghosh and Shri Sawarup Banik – home in AD Nagar, near Basanti Club
- Sh. Hardhan Baidya – premises in Paschim Nalchar, Sepahijala district
- Mr. Utpal Kumar Chowdhury – residence in Khayerpur
Reports suggest that the ED is focusing on uncovering evidence such as bank records, property documents, and financial transactions that could demonstrate the individuals’ alleged involvement in fraud and money laundering.
Spotlight on Sawarup Banik
Among those under investigation, Sawarup Banik, a retired employee of the Fire Service, has attracted particular attention. According to sources, Banik allegedly amassed significant wealth during his tenure as a manager for a private company, raising suspicions of illicit financial activities. Adding to the intrigue, his brother Somesh Banik, a Tripura Civil Service (TCS) officer, is currently posted in the Bishalgarh sub-divisional magistrate’s office. The connection has fueled media speculation, although officials have emphasized that investigations are ongoing and no conclusions have yet been drawn.
The Scale of the Operation
The raids reflect the ED’s increasing focus on Tripura as a hub of scrutiny for financial crimes. Officials were seen meticulously inspecting properties, seizing documents, and collecting digital evidence. Central paramilitary forces maintained tight security, ensuring smooth operations amidst heightened public interest.
Local residents and shopkeepers near the targeted areas expressed surprise at the sudden influx of ED and paramilitary personnel. “It was unusual to see such a large-scale operation here early in the morning. Everyone in the neighborhood was curious,” said a resident near AD Nagar.
Ongoing Investigations
Investigators are expected to spend several days analyzing the seized material, which may include financial records, property deeds, and digital evidence. The ED has made it clear that these raids are part of a wider probe into suspected corruption, financial irregularities, and illegal land transactions in the state.
Authorities have indicated that additional individuals may come under scrutiny in the coming weeks as the investigation unfolds. “We are looking at a pattern of financial misconduct that spans multiple entities. The focus is on uncovering the full extent of illegal activities,” said a senior official familiar with the operation, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Public and Political Reactions
The raids have already created a buzz in Tripura, with local political circles and social media platforms buzzing with speculation. Citizens have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the crackdown on corruption, while others urge due process and caution against jumping to conclusions.
Experts note that such high-profile ED operations are intended not only to enforce the law but also to serve as a warning against financial mismanagement and illegal dealings. “The ED’s role is crucial in maintaining financial discipline and ensuring that officials and private individuals do not exploit systemic loopholes for personal gain,” said a former legal advisor based in Agartala.
Next Steps
While the initial phase of raids has concluded, investigators are expected to continue their scrutiny over the coming days. Officials have promised to release further details after a thorough examination of the collected evidence. Meanwhile, all four individuals remain under observation, and authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation until official announcements are made.
The operation marks one of the most significant enforcement actions in Tripura in recent times, highlighting the state’s increasing vigilance against financial crimes and corruption. Analysts believe that this may lead to further reforms in local governance and stricter monitoring of financial transactions across sectors.