Kerala half-price scam: ED raids 12 locations, including properties of Congress leader Laly Vincent

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is currently conducting raids at 12 locations in Kerala in connection with the 'half-price scam.' The raids, which began early Tuesday morning, target establishments of key accused Ananthu Krishnan and those connected to mastermind Ananda Kumar, including Sai Gramam Thonnakkal. Among the properties raided is the residence of Congress leader Laly Vincent, located on Marine Drive, where her office is also based.

Laly Vincent, previously named as the seventh accused in a case registered by Kannur Town Police, is at the centre of controversy. Although the Kerala High Court had blocked her arrest after granting anticipatory bail, it acknowledged the gravity of the allegations against her. Laly has consistently denied any involvement in the scam. She stated that the ₹40 lakh she received from Ananthu Krishnan was a payment for legal consultation and not a personal financial gain. To substantiate her claims, she provided bank account details as proof. She also denied allegations from Ananda Kumar that she had introduced Ananthu to individuals concerned.

ED probe

The raids are part of an ongoing investigation led by the ED’s Kochi office, following a case registered under black money and gambling provisions. Over 60 officials were deployed for the raids, targeting locations linked to the fraudulent scheme. Investigations show that the scam involves a staggering ₹159 crore, with ordinary citizens duped into paying for scooters through misleading half-price deals. These funds were reportedly laundered as black money.

Police probe 

Police probe revealed that Ananthu Krishnan allegedly distributed large sums of money to political figures across Kerala. In Idukki, Krishnan is said to have given ₹1.5 crore to various political leaders, including ₹40 lakh to a youth leader and ₹25 lakh to an LDF district leader. These payments were made indirectly through acquaintances and benami channels, particularly during the election period. Additionally, police claim that Krishnan acquired land in four locations.