CBI arrests Duronto Molla in connection with 2024 ED raid assault case
The Statesman | 27 November 2025
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Duronto Molla, a close associate of jailed Sheikh Shahjahan, in connection with an alleged assault on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials during a raid in Sarberia, located in South 24 Parganas’ Sandeshkhali area.
The incident, which occurred during a 2024 raid, involved Molla and his followers allegedly attacking the ED team as they attempted to search Shahjahan’s residence in relation to an investigation into a ration distribution scam linked to the COVID-19 period.
Molla had been on the run since the incident but was finally apprehended by CBI officials, according to sources. The case highlights ongoing tensions between the ED and those accused of being involved in large-scale corruption during the pandemic.
Acting on intelligence inputs that Duronto Molla had returned to a hideout,the CBI’s anti-crime wing conducted a raid at a location in Basirhat, North 24 Parganas, where the accused was apprehended on Tuesday night.
The ED was investigating a statutory ration distribution scam that occurred during the COVID-19 period, in which former Food Minister Jyoti Priya Mallick was arrested. Molla, along with Shahjahan’s followers, allegedly attacked the ED team in front of Shahjahan’s house, leaving the officials and even CRPF jawans in a perilous situation.
The CRPF personnel were reportedly forced to retreat from the scene, abandoning the raid for safety.
Following Molla’s arrest, sources said the CBI plans to produce him before a special court for judicial proceedings. The agency is expected to seek his custody for further interrogation.