Former Trinamool MLA Saokat Molla Arrested After Two-Day Search in Bhangar Blast Investigation
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday night arrested former Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla in connection with the Bhangar blast case, bringing an end to a nearly 48-hour search operation.
According to officials, Molla was apprehended from a hideout in the Kamalgazi area on the southern outskirts of Kolkata. Investigators had earlier declared him absconding after he allegedly evaded multiple search operations conducted over the past two days.
NIA teams had carried out extensive searches across Bhangar, Basanti and nearby regions but were initially unable to locate the former legislator. Concerned that he might attempt to leave the area, the agency had also alerted the Border Security Force (BSF) and shared his details with border units.
On Thursday, investigators searched Molla’s residence, party office and several locations linked to his associates. Officials believe he left the area before the raids began. The searches were later conducted in the presence of family members. During the operation, his son, Ahmedul Molla, was also taken into custody.
Sources said investigators received information that Molla had been seen in the Basanti-Chunakhali region riding on the back of a motorcycle. Witnesses reportedly described him wearing red clothing and a helmet. Acting on these leads, NIA teams, assisted by central security forces, searched several locations, including a madrassa and nearby forested areas, but failed to trace him at that time.
The arrest marks a significant development in the Bhangar blast investigation. Prior to Molla’s detention, the NIA had already arrested three other individuals in connection with the case.
The agency is expected to question the former MLA further as it continues its probe into the incident and the alleged involvement of those connected to the blast.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets
