Bhangar Blast Case: Former TMC MLA Saokat Molla Arrested After Intensive Manhunt
In a major breakthrough in the Bhangar blast investigation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested former Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla after an extensive two-day search operation.
Molla, who had reportedly been evading investigators for nearly 48 hours, was taken into custody late Friday night from a hideout in Kamalgazi, located on the southern outskirts of Kolkata.
The NIA had earlier declared him absconding and launched a large-scale search across several areas, including Bhangar, Basanti, and surrounding regions. Investigators feared he might attempt to leave the state, prompting the agency to alert the Border Security Force (BSF) and strengthen surveillance along border areas.
On Thursday, multiple NIA teams conducted raids at Molla’s residence, party office, and properties linked to his close associates. Officials believe he managed to leave the area before the searches began. During the operation, investigators questioned family members and later arrested his son, Ahmedul Molla.
According to sources, Molla was last spotted in the Basanti-Chunakhali region riding pillion on a motorcycle. Witnesses claimed he was dressed in red clothing and wearing a helmet. Acting on these leads, NIA teams, supported by central security forces, carried out searches in several locations, including a madrassa and nearby wooded areas, but initially failed to locate him.
The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing probe into the Bhangar blast case. Prior to Molla’s detention, the NIA had already arrested three other individuals believed to be connected to the incident.
Officials are expected to question the former legislator in the coming days as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the blast and identify those allegedly involved.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
