TMC leader Anubrata Mondal arrested by CBI for "non-cooperation" in cattle smuggle case investigation.

TMC leader Anubrata Mondal

After almost an hour-long interrogation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday, senior Trinamool Congress leader Anubrata Mondal was arrested from his residence in Bengal's Bolpur for allegedly not cooperating in its probe into a cattle smuggling case.

The CBI served a notice to the Trinamool leader before arresting him, he said.

"We have arrested him for non-cooperation in the investigation into the cattle smuggling scam. We have found Mr Mondal's direct involvement in the scam. We will question him today and take necessary action as per law," the official told Press Trust of India.

Earlier today at around 10 am, a CBI team comprising at least eight officers along with personnel of central forces reached Birbhum district president – Mondal's house and conducted a search operation, as part of the probe.

Citing health problems, Mr Mondal had twice skipped his scheduled appearance before the central probe agency in the last few days. The CBI would also question the doctor of a Bolpur hospital who had prescribed Mondal bed rest for 14 days.

Raids at residences of several close aides of the TMC leader are also being conducted by the CBI officials.