DVAC raids TN ex-minister EV Velu's properties in disproportionate assets case

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) on Thursday carried out coordinated searches at multiple locations connected to former Tamil Nadu minister and senior DMK leader EV Velu as part of an investigation into an alleged disproportionate assets case.

According to officials, search teams visited Velu's residence, offices and other premises linked to him and his family members in Chennai, Tiruvannamalai and several other locations across the state.

During the operation, investigators scrutinised financial records, property-related documents and electronic devices that could aid the probe.

The action follows the registration of a disproportionate assets case by the DVAC's Special Investigation Cell (SIC), which is examining allegations that Velu accumulated assets beyond his known sources of income during the period under scrutiny.

Security was stepped up at the search locations while officials conducted the operation. The anti-corruption agency has not yet disclosed the estimated value of the alleged assets or announced any recoveries made during the searches.

The case is significant as it is the first anti-corruption investigation initiated against a former DMK minister since the TVK government assumed office in Tamil Nadu last month.