New Delhi: During searches at seven premises in Kolkata on Wednesday in the ongoing money laundering probe against real estate developer Merlin Group, the ED found that the builder has links with some senior politicians and bureaucrats of Bengal. “The role of these public servants and their financial transactions with the real estate group and its promoters is being investigated,” ED sources said. This action comes ahead of voting in West Bengal, where voting is to be held on April 23 and April 29. Officials aware of the investigation said the agency has seized some incriminating digital devices and documents from the builder’s premises, revealing his deep nexus with state officials and politicians. To further establish the money trail in its ongoing investigation, the ED is investigating Merlin Group promoter Sushil Mohta, Saket Mohta and other related entities. Sources said the agency is probing some documents that were prepared to fraudulently acquire various tracts of land, including public land, in Kolkata. “Subsequently, the accused persons commercially exploited the land by launching large-scale real estate projects. By projecting themselves as legitimate owners on the strength of forged documents, they induced the public to invest substantial sums in their projects,” a senior officer said.