In a major breakthrough in the high-profile murder of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s close aide Chandranath Rath, investigators have arrested three suspected assailants from Uttar Pradesh following a late-night operation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The accused, believed to have links with professional contract killers and interstate criminal networks, were brought to Kolkata for further interrogation and are expected to be produced before a court on Monday.
The arrests mark the first major development in the investigation into the sensational killing that shook Bengal’s political and security circles earlier this month. Sources in the investigation said the three arrested men — identified as Mayank Sharma, Vicky Maurya and Raj Singh — were tracked down after weeks of technical surveillance and intelligence gathering by the SIT.
Officials said one of the arrested suspects is believed to be a professional shooter. Investigators are also probing possible links between the accused and criminal operatives based in Bihar. A special team comprising officers from the STF and the CID had travelled to Uttar Pradesh to carry out the operation.
Chandranath Rath was shot dead on the night of May 6 in Madhyamgram. According to investigators, Rath’s vehicle was intercepted after another four-wheeler suddenly blocked its path. Moments later, armed assailants arrived on two motorcycles from opposite directions and opened fire on Rath and his driver at close range.
Rath died on the spot, while his driver sustained critical injuries and continues to remain under medical treatment.
Police believe the murder was carefully planned at least one to one-and-a-half months in advance. Investigators are now examining whether Rath had any recent disputes or conflicts that could have led to the attack. The SIT is also trying to identify the mastermind behind the conspiracy.
The vehicle allegedly used during the operation was seized on the day of the murder. Preliminary investigation revealed that the number plate attached to the car was fake. Police later recovered the two motorcycles used by the attackers, and officials suspect those vehicles also carried forged registration plates.
Investigators suspect the car involved in the murder was brought from Jharkhand. A digital payment made at the Bali toll plaza reportedly provided a crucial lead, helping police trace the suspects’ movements and eventually track them down.
The case continues to be treated as one of the most sensitive criminal investigations currently underway in the state, with multiple agencies coordinating efforts to uncover the full conspiracy behind the assassination-style killing.
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