In a dramatic escalation of underworld tensions in Kolkata, a violent clash erupted on Panchanantala Road in Kankulia on Sunday night, with police investigations uncovering a complex web of motives beyond mere syndicate control. The incident, marked by gunfire, bomb explosions, brick-batting, and extensive vandalism, has taken a new twist as authorities now believe it was significantly driven by a fierce struggle to dominate the fledgling satta business along the rail tracks of Dhakuria and Park Circus.
Key Players and Arrests in the Syndicate War
Police sources have identified the central figures in this conflict as Babusona Mandal, the trusted right-hand man of notorious syndicate leader Sona Pappu, and the rival faction led by Satta Sanju, who is reputed to be the mastermind behind the local satta operations. According to investigators, Sanju reportedly enjoyed privileged access to local developer Bapi Haldar, adding a layer of real estate intrigue to the violent dispute. Babusona Mandal was subsequently arrested on Tuesday, marking a significant breakthrough in the case.
Evidence and Police Findings
A senior police official disclosed that compelling evidence has been gathered through various video footage and CCTV recordings, confirming the direct involvement of both groups. So far, 17 individuals have been taken into custody, with approximately a dozen believed to be close associates of Sona Pappu, while the remaining two are linked to Satta Sanju. This arrest spree underscores the intensity of the rivalry and the law enforcement's crackdown on organized crime in the area.
Catalysts for the Violent Confrontation
The roots of this clash can be traced back to recent community actions and escalating territorial disputes. Local residents, including a substantial number of women, sought police assistance to demolish Sanju's illegal gambling den situated near the railway tracks. Sanju and his associates suspected that Sona Pappu, who has been expanding his influence in the Lake-Dhakuria zone, orchestrated this demolition drive. This suspicion fueled existing animosities and set the stage for retaliation.
Historical Tensions and Syndicate Dynamics
Police investigations reveal that the conflict is deeply embedded in long-standing syndicate rivalries. Bapi Haldar's syndicate is actively involved in real estate promotion around Kakulia Road and its environs, whereas Sona Pappu and Babusona Mandal operate a separate syndicate dominating the Kasba, Tiljala, and Topsia areas. Recently, Sona Pappu and Babusona attempted to encroach upon the Kakulia territory but met stiff resistance. Adding to the tensions, Sona Pappu purchased a house on Kakulia Road, signaling his intent to solidify his presence. For nearly a year, there has been persistent friction between the syndicates of Bapi Haldar and Sona Pappu, with the experience from last year's Ganesh Puja violence serving as a catalyst for Sanju to mobilize his gang in anticipation of trouble in Kakulia.
This incident highlights the dangerous interplay between illegal gambling operations, real estate interests, and syndicate warfare in Kolkata, prompting heightened police vigilance and community concerns over public safety.
