Power centers trying to derail ED's investigation in Kerala gold smuggling case: Sources

A top source in Enforcement Directorate has informed Republic TV that certain sections of those in power are attempting to derail investigation in Kerala Gold Smuggling case and its allied investigation including money laundering and kickbacks in flagship projects of Kerala government.

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Source: 'Power centres trying to derail investigation'

On Wednesday, a 35-second audiotape, allegedly by Swapna Suresh, incarcerated in Women's jail in Thiruvananthapuram, h emerged which h caused a flutter of conspiracy ories.

Prominent among m, one h alleged that ED is working at behest of Central government and is unnecessarily trying to implicate Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan in case. 

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In audiotape, Swapna is purportedly heard to say that ED is trying to make her an approver if she spills Chief Minister's name.

However, top sources in ED told Republic TV that Swapna Suresh being prime accused can t be me an approver. ED sources also denied allegation that y are trying to implicate anyone.

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" probe is going on in a professional manner and it is one's nda to wrongly fix anyone in case," a probe team member said, requesting anymity.

top official source also said complete consent of accused was taken and she signed it only after reing and understanding contents of her statement. It is also reported that ED has called Pinarayi Vijayan's ditional private secretary CM Raveendran who has been avoiding appearing before probe team on account of Covid infection.

It is understood that  ED has sought details of key infrastructure projects of Kerala govt. Sources tell Republic TV that  ED has alrey identified beneficiaries of kickbacks in one of LIFE Mission projects.

"ED will soon unearth discrepancies in remaining projects as well," official said.

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