Kochi: The leader of the opposition of Kochi corporation, Antony Kureethara on Wednesday demanded Enforcement Directorate-led probe into a suspected scam surrounding Kudumbashree groups in Ernakulam. 

Miscreants are allegedly involved in swindling money by forging the credentials of Kudumbashree groups. The presence of a racket is also suspected. According to initial reports, a scam of an amount totalling Rs 1 crore has happened under the two divisions of Kochi Corporation, in seven separate instances. Police have registered the case over the matter by slapping charges for fraudulence and forgery. 

Kureethara said that the probe should unearth details about those involved in forgery, their aides, and those who received commission out of the alleged crime. 

Earlier, Kureethara had lodged a complaint with the chief minister, local-self government minister and vigilance. 

The banks have been issuing loans to groups approved by Kudumbashree. During a document verification, it came to light that some entities are forging credentials to swindle money. These miscreants are using photos, and details of the members in the approved and existing Kudumbashree groups. They are apparently targeting only groups that already have taken loans. They have been using fake seals and signatures of the competent authority in the Kudumbashree divisions.