Kochi: Gold smuggling case accused Swapna Suresh's statement that was leaked through social media was sealed and submitted in the Economic Offences Court here. The copy of the statement was not given even to the lawyer of Swapna considering its confidential nature. Three pages of the 32-page statement was leaked through social media later.

It was found out in a probe that the statement was leaked within the Customs. The phone records of some Customs officials was collected in connection with this. Swapna's statement was submitted in the court just before the accused were handed over from the custody of Customs to the Enforcement Directorate.

According to section 108 of the Customs Act, the statement of the accused in smuggling cases can be accepted as evidence if the court approved it. Swapna's lawyer had requested for a copy of the statement.

The Customs lawyer opposed this stating that the statement is of confidential nature and it will affect the investigation. With this, the statement was not handed over to the lawyer of the accused. The trial court is likely to demand an explanation from the probe team.

Earlier, the Customs had sought information from the personal staff member of finance minister Dr Thomas Isaac, after finding out that the statement was forwarded to many others through him. The personal staff told them that he received it through social media. The leaked statement was about Janam TV coordinating editor Anil Nambiar. BJP had alleged conspiracy behind the incident.