A gang of conmen operating out of Central Kolkata, posing as CBI officers, has managed to swindle traders out of lakhs of rupees, the police said. In recent weeks, at least two incidents have been reported where individuals were allegedly robbed by a gang impersonating CBI officials.

According to a police officer, the criminals’ modus operandi is strikingly consistent. They typically arrive in a black Scorpio vehicle, flashing fake CBI credentials to intimidate their victims. In some cases, they directly target shops; in others, they abduct individuals carrying large sums of cash, the officer added. Once the victims are incapacitated or distracted, the gang escapes with the stolen money.

Two such incidents have occurred in the Posta and Watgunje areas within the past 15 days. In both cases, the victims were reportedly associated with the hawala trade, and the total amount stolen is estimated to be around Rs 50 lakh.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Kolkata Police and the intelligence department at Lalbazar, are investigating these incidents. Preliminary findings suggest that a gang of four individuals, often seen wearing dark glasses, is responsible for these crimes.

According to sources, both incidents involved the abduction of individuals linked to the hawala trade. The use of a black Scorpio and fake CBI credentials indicates a well-organized operation.

An officer explained, “Hawala traders often handle large sums of unaccounted money. When such money is lost, they are hesitant to report it to the police, creating an opportunity for criminals to exploit the situation.”

The Posta and Burrabazar areas are prime targets for these criminals. Posing as buyers or distributors, they infiltrate these networks to gather intelligence on large cash transactions. Once a target is identified, they strike with precision.

“The gang has a well-established network of agents who collect information on hawala traders’ transactions. This information is then used to plan and execute the robberies,” said a police officer. Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts to apprehend the culprits. The public is advised to exercise caution and be wary of individuals claiming to be CBI officers, especially if approached in suspicious circumstances.