ED Conducts Raids on Former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s Properties in Money Laundering Investigation

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a significant operation in Kerala, conducting searches at the residences of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in both Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering activities linked to a private mining company, Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL).

The focus of the investigation is a transaction involving approximately Rs 1.72 crore that was reportedly paid to Exalogic Solutions, a now-defunct information technology firm owned by Vijayan’s daughter, T. Veena, between the years 2017 and 2021. Allegations suggest that these payments were made without any substantial evidence of services being provided in return, raising questions about the legitimacy of the financial dealings.

On the day of the raids, around 12 locations across the state were targeted, including the homes of Vijayan’s daughter and son-in-law, former minister P.A. Muhammad Riyas, in Kozhikode. The ED also conducted searches at the offices associated with officials from Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited, further expanding the scope of the investigation.

This case first came to light following an income tax department operation earlier this year, which had targeted CMRL while Vijayan was still serving as the Chief Minister of Kerala. The investigation by the ED appears to be a continuation of this scrutiny, as it delves deeper into potential financial irregularities connected to the mining company, in which the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation holds a 13.4% stake.

The ED’s actions have stirred political discourse in the state, with the former Chief Minister facing increasing pressure as the investigation unfolds. Vijayan’s administration has previously faced allegations regarding governance and financial transparency, making this latest development a focal point of concern for his supporters and critics alike. As the situation evolves, all eyes will be on how this investigation impacts the political landscape in Kerala, particularly with ongoing discussions about accountability and governance.

Source: scroll.in