Police search TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee’s house in hunt for bodyguard, use gas cutter to break locks

Around 3 am, a team of officials from Salboni police station in West Midnapore—led by a deputy superintendent of police and assisted by local police and central forces—reached Abhishek’s Patuapara residence, Kalighat police sources said. They tried to call out to Banerjee’s security to open the gates, which were locked from inside. After repeated knocking went unanswered, after nearly two hours, a gas cutter was brought, and the locks were cut with assistance from state Disaster Management Department officials. The entire search operation was recorded on video.

As news of the search operation spread, former West Bengal chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee arrived at the spot. Speaking to reporters later, Abhishek said, ”Yes, they broke the lock and searched the entire premises. Everything is on record.”

Last week, former TMC MLA Sujoy Hazra was arrested on charges of extortion and forgery. In 2021, Hazra allegedly took Rs 10 lakh from a complainant named Imran, promising to deliver houses. Neither did he return the money nor did he stick to his promise. According to police sources, during the investigation, the Salboni police found links between Hazra and Roy.

The development comes at a time when Abhishek is set to make a series of appearances before various investigating agencies.