Accused, Vishnu Prasad (centre), being taken to the collectorate for evidence collection (File photo)
Kochi: Nidhin, a local CPM leader at Thrikkakkara East local committee, was found involved in the flood relief fund scam. The Crime Branch uncovered the truth after Rs 2.5 lakh was transferred to the bank account of Nidhin’s wife. Earlier, Crime Branch got hints on the unauthorised money transaction. But an official confirmation was made now. With this, the investigation on the flood relief fund fraudulence points out to more CPM local leaders.
As per the case, Rs 10.54 lakh was swindled from the flood relief fund. The probe team found that Vishnu Prasad, an employee of Ernakulam collectorate, transferred money to the bank account of CPM leaders in Kakkanad region where flood has not affected.
Muvattupuzha vigilance court remanded Vishnu Prasad in the case. The investigation into the case is under progress as per the statement of Vishnu Prasad and examination of the documents from treasury and district collector.
It is examined that apart from Vishnu Prasad, who is a section clerk, more officials will be involved in the case.
An internal probe into the fraudulence was also carried out by the finance officer as directed by the district collector. This probe uncovered that Rs 10.54 lakh was swindled from the relief fund. Meanwhile, the probe under Crime Branch revealed swindling of more money from the fund. It is reported that about Rs 16 lakh was illegally transferred from the treasury. In this amount, Rs 10 lakh was successfully recovered. The district collector has issued a notice to the bank authorities to recover the rest of the money.
At first, the fraudsters transferred the money to the bank account of Federal bank branch at Chembumukku. Later, this money was transferred to CPM leader MM Anwar’s account in cooperative bank.
Muvattupuzha vigilance judge B Kalam Pasha remanded Vishnu who was arrested in the case for two weeks. The court will consider the case on March 7.
The case was registered under acts related to offences of cheating, misappropriation, conspiracy and corruption.
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