Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has ordered the Home Department to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a detailed inquiry into alleged financial irregularities linked to the proposed visit of Argentine football star Lionel Messi and his team to the state.
The decision followed a review of reports submitted by the Sports Department secretary and the GST Department. The proposed SIT is expected to include senior officials from multiple agencies, including the police and Vigilance, to examine the financial transactions and identify any violations.
According to reports from regional media, the GST Department detected potential tax-related irregularities involving the transfer of Rs 126 crore to the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The money was reportedly routed through event sponsor Reporter Broadcasting Limited and a US-based agency as part of arrangements for Messi’s proposed Kerala visit.
The GST authorities also reportedly identified another major transaction involving Rs 206 crore credited to the account of Reporter Broadcasting Limited by two financial institutions. The source and nature of these funds have not been clearly established, prompting further scrutiny.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has separately initiated an investigation into the overseas transfer of Rs 126 crore. Its probe is examining possible violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). The agency is also looking into whether the transactions involved possible money laundering under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The ED has obtained the reports prepared by the Sports Department and GST authorities and is expected to question individuals connected with the transactions. Meanwhile, the state-level inquiry is expected to gain momentum after the Home Department formally issues the order establishing the SIT and names its head.
The investigations could bring greater clarity on the financial arrangements surrounding the proposed Messi visit and determine whether any individuals or entities violated tax, foreign exchange or anti-money laundering laws.