The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted simultaneous raids in at least four locations connected to Lakshadweep MP Mohammed Faizal. The ED raided an office of a logistics firm run by his relative in Beypore, a relative’s house in Edapally, his residences at Androth island and Delhi. The raids aim to investigate financial irregularities connected to a CBI case registered against Faizal. The CBI had booked Faizal in July last year in connection with alleged irregularities in the export of tuna fish to a Sri Lankan company.
During the investigation, it was found that in 2016-17, on the assurance of Faizal, a foreign buyer was willing to purchase ‘massmeen’ (tuna) at a higher rate than the prevailing rate. Lakshadweep Cooperative Marketing Federation (LCMF) procured around 287 MT of tuna from fishermen of Lakshadweep islands. The procurement was allegedly done by the then MD of LCMF, without following norms or floating tender.
The raids took place on Saturday between 3pm and 7pm. The ED is investigating Faizal’s connection with the irregularities and financial crimes connected to the CBI case. The ED had earlier interrogated Faizal in September 2020 in connection with the case.
The ED’s raids are seen as a significant move in the ongoing investigation, which has been looking into financial malpractices in the tuna export business. The agency is expected to gather evidence to establish money laundering, illegal transactions, and the misuse of public funds by those involved in the case.
It is not the first time that a prominent personality’s connection to financial irregularities has come to light. The case highlights the importance of transparency, ethical business practices, and the need for strict enforcement of financial laws and regulations. The ongoing investigation will be of interest to people following the story and is an essential step towards ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
Overall, the ED’s move is seen as a significant step towards investigating financial crimes in the tuna export business. The agency’s investigation into Faizal’s connection to the alleged irregularities is ongoing, and the outcome is likely to have a significant impact on the case.
