The Central Bureau of Investigation ICBI) team probing the misappropriation in Life Mission project in Wadakkancherry has decided to interrogate Swapna Suresh, one of the key accused in gold smuggling case. CBI has named Santhosh Eapan, owner of Unitac Builders, as the first accused in the case. The probe team evaluates that crucial information will be obtained from Swapna relating to Life Mission project.
As per reports, CBI will submit an application in the court for the custody of Swapna Suresh and PS Sarith, another accused in the gold smuggling case.
Swapna had earlier given statement that she had received Rs 1 crore as commission from the project. As per the contract signed, the builder was to be chosen by Life Mission and Uae-based Red Crescent which was funding the project. But the UAE Consulate General sabotaged this contract condition and appointed Unitac Builders.
The preliminary investigation by CBI found that some people had used Consulate General to swindle money as commission. The probe team evaluates that this might have taken place with the help of Swapna Suresh, a former employee at the UAE Consulate who had great influence in office. Also, some of the accused in gold smuggling case could have played a part.
Red Crescent had transferred Rs 75 lakh from the second instalment of the project, to the bank account of company owned by Sandeep Nair, another accused in gold smuggling case. CBI found that this was to be distributed to some high-profile persons in Kerala and abroad.
Meanwhile, the National Investigation Agency and Customs probing the gold smuggling case had found that many high-profile persons in Kerala and abroad were involved in the case.
Unitac Builders MD had also given statement that the first instalment provided by Red Crescent was used to pay commissions.
CBI will also collect information from Life Mission CEO in coming days. Also, the probe team has sought all files and documents relating to Life Mission project from Chief Secretary.
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