Half-price scam accused Ananthu has 21 accounts, Rs 548 Cr in firm; swindled Rs 143 Cr for scooter

The Crime Branch has revealed that Ananthu Krishnan, arrested in connection with the half price scooter scam, operated 21 bank accounts across various banks. His company Social Bee Ventures alone had 11 accounts through which he reportedly received a staggering Rs 548 crore.

According to preliminary findings submitted to the court, Ananthu collected Rs 60,000 each from 20,163 individuals and Rs 56,000 each from 4,035 individuals, promising them two-wheelers. This fraudulent scheme allegedly funneled Rs 143.5 crore into his accounts.

Authorities are yet to determine the source of the Rs 548 crore and whether more individuals were involved in the scam. There is also no clarity on how this enormous sum was utilised. Citing these concerns, the Crime Branch sought to keep Ananthu Krishnan in custody for five days. However, the court granted custody for only two days.

So far, investigators have been able to trace only Rs 4.75 crore in Ananthu's accounts. While a few two-wheelers and laptops were distributed, and some land was purchased, the authorities have yet to track the remaining funds. The Crime Branch insists that a thorough investigation and further evidence collection are crucial to establishing the full extent of the fraud.

Reports have also surfaced suggesting that money was transferred to political leaders for election-related activities. Allegations have been raised that some of these individuals were directly linked to the scam. The Crime Branch has stressed the need for further questioning and evidence collection to establish the truth behind these claims.