Kochi: The accused in the half-price scam, Ananthu Krishnan from Koodayathur, is obligated to deliver scooters to 31,000 people. The Crime Branch has found that Ananthu currently has liabilities amounting to Rs 230 crore. He had also distributed laptops and sewing machines using the money collected under the pretext of providing two-wheelers at half price.

The investigation further revealed that Ananthu employed around 60 staff members and spent nearly Rs 60 crore on their salaries, rent for two flats near High Court Junction, office spaces and promotional events for vehicle distribution.

Bank transactions under scrutiny with Ananthu present

The Crime Branch has taken Ananthu Krishnan into custody again for further questioning. His arrest was officially recorded in a case registered in Kothamangalam, following court approval, and he is set to be presented before the court again on Thursday morning.

Over the past two years, Ananthu has conducted tens of thousands of bank transactions related to the scam. Nearly 50,000 people have deposited money for various schemes, and around 18,000 scooters were delivered by Ananthu and his team. In addition, many individuals had paid for laptops, sewing machines and fertilisers.

Investigators discovered that funds received from applicants were transferred, both through banks and alternative channels, to non-applicants. Some of Ananthu’s earlier explanations regarding these transactions were deemed unsatisfactory. Due to persisting doubts, the Crime Branch has initiated an in-depth review of his bank transactions in his presence.

Simultaneously, steps have been taken to attach Ananthu Krishnan’s assets. A report has been submitted to the Muvattupuzha Judicial First Class Magistrate Court regarding the process. The investigation has already identified five plots of land purchased by Ananthu at Koodayathur.

Laly Vincent granted anticipatory bail

Meanwhile, Congress leader and advocate Laly Vincent has been granted anticipatory bail by the Kerala High Court in the case. Justice P V Kunhikrishnan granted the relief in a case registered by Kannur Town South Police. 

The court ordered that if she is arrested, she should be granted bail immediately. Laly Vincent has maintained that she only received money from Ananthu as a legal consultation fee. The court has also disposed of anticipatory bail pleas filed by other accused persons in similar cases.