The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Wednesday carried out searches at the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abdullah Gazi in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged foreign funding received for the construction of a madrasa.
The raid was conducted at Gazi’s residence in Rameshwarpur village of Hasnabad, where ATS officials questioned the local TMC leader regarding the alleged inflow of overseas funds. Officials of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) assisted the ATS during the operation, while central security forces provided security cover. Local police and civil administration officials were also present.
Searches Conducted at Multiple Locations
Apart from Hasnabad, the ATS simultaneously conducted searches at multiple locations across West Bengal, including Haroa, as investigators expanded the probe into the suspected foreign funding network.
Officials said the coordinated operation was based on fresh leads gathered during an ongoing investigation into alleged financial transactions linked to madrasa construction.
Probe Focuses on Foreign Money Trail
According to investigators, the probe centres on allegations that substantial funds were transferred from abroad into bank accounts allegedly linked to Abdullah Gazi for the construction of a madrasa in Rameshwarpur.
Investigating agencies are examining the origin of the funds, banking transactions, financial records and supporting documents to determine whether the money was utilised for the stated purpose or diverted elsewhere.
Officials are also verifying allegations that crores of rupees were collected in the name of foreign donations and are tracing how those funds were subsequently spent.
A police officer associated with the investigation said the inquiry has reached a crucial stage and that further action will depend on the evidence collected during the searches.
Earlier Arrest Under Investigation
Officials said Abdullah Gazi was arrested by the Uttar Pradesh ATS nearly two years ago in connection with a similar foreign funding case. That investigation is still underway, and the latest searches were carried out after investigators received fresh information during the course of the probe.
The renewed action is aimed at corroborating financial evidence and identifying any additional individuals or entities linked to the alleged funding network.
The Uttar Pradesh ATS has not issued an official statement detailing the outcome of Wednesday’s searches or whether any documents, electronic devices or financial records were seized during the operation.
The investigation remains ongoing, with agencies expected to scrutinise the evidence collected before deciding on further legal action.
