Chennai, Sept 24:
The investigation into the POCSO case involving Gem Granites founder R Veeramani has widened with police probing an alleged ₹70-crore money trail and the possible involvement of political figures, intermediaries and police officials in attempts to suppress or delay the case.
According to reports emerging from the investigation, two political functionaries, including a Congress leader, allegedly acted as intermediaries in negotiations with Veeramani after video evidence of alleged sexual abuse of a minor was obtained. These claims are being investigated and no conclusion has been reached regarding the alleged role of the individuals.
Police are also examining allegations that an initial payment of ₹10 crore was made to political intermediaries. The investigation is reportedly looking into how the money was distributed and whether any of the payments were intended to prevent criminal action against Veeramani.
The probe has also focused on a larger alleged payment of ₹60 crore. According to the allegations reported in the case, Veeramani sold property to raise funds and the money was subsequently distributed to various persons. Police are examining property transactions, financial records and other evidence to establish the actual money trail.
Recent reports said the Anti-Vice Squad of the Central Crime Branch searched multiple premises linked to Veeramani and another person, seizing mobile phones, documents and digital material. Police have also issued a summons to Prakash, who is alleged to have helped facilitate financial transactions involving the ₹70-crore amount.
The alleged financial transactions are being investigated separately from the main POCSO case. Investigators are examining whether money was used to influence the earlier handling of the case or prevent Veeramani’s name from being included in criminal proceedings. A senior police officer has also been assigned to examine the alleged money trail and the role of officials, according to reports.
The original case relates to allegations of sexual offences against minor girls. Veeramani and two others, Shanthi and her husband Mahendra Simhan, have been arrested in connection with the case, while another former employee, Ganesan, was subsequently arrested over alleged failure to report digital evidence.
The investigation has gained further momentum after the POCSO court directed that the matter be pursued instead of accepting an earlier attempt to close the case. Police are now examining both the alleged offences and the circumstances surrounding the earlier investigation.
According to the latest reports, investigators are collecting evidence before deciding on further arrests.
Meanwhile, the Central Crime Branch (CCB) has summoned three police officers who had earlier investigated the POCSO case against Veeramani, seeking their appearance for questioning.
The officers summoned are Anti-Vice Squad Assistant Commissioner Yasmin and Inspectors Mahesh Kumar and Rajalakshmi. The CCB is reportedly questioning them about the handling of the complaint registered against Veeramani in October last year.
The case had earlier been taken to court for closure, but the court did not accept the move and ordered further investigation. The CCB is now examining why the case was closed despite the complaint and whether the earlier investigation adequately pursued the allegations.