Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s office knew about gold smuggling, says ED

This information has been divulged by Swapna Suresh, the main accused in the case, the ED said, reported Hindustan Times.

This is the first time that the probe agency has named the CM’s office in the Kerala gold smuggling case.

Last week ED had summoned Raveendran, a party leader from Kannur in north Kerala, said to be close to the CM Pinarayi Vijayan and served under various ministries.

He was summoned on the basis of the statements of Sivasankar and Suresh, the report said.

However, Raveendran couldn't come as he was infected with coronavirus.

According to the report, the ED said Sivasankar had information about the kickbacks in several special projects of the government like Life Mission and KFON. He also let out vital details of such projects and other information to companies eyeing the projects.

“Sivasankar shared confidential information with Suresh relating to many key projects. There could be possible kickbacks to certain private parties. It is no coincidence that he knows all main accused in the gold smuggling case,” the statement said, reported HT.

It said “Sivasankar and some officials at the CM team were fully aware of illegal activities”, according to the report.

After Sivasankar's arrest on October 28, the chief minister's office distanced from him. However, in case of Raveendran, it would be difficult for the CM's office, the report said.

The gold smuggling case hit the national headlines on July 5 after 30 kg was caught while being smuggled as a consignment camouflaged as diplomatic consignment. A case is being investigated by NIA and so far 34 people have been arrested.