Kochi, 16 September (H.S.): A Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Wednesday conducted searches at five locations linked to the Augustine brothers as part of its probe into the alleged financial fraud involving a proposal to bring Argentine football legend Lionel Messi to Kerala.

The searches began early in the morning at the brothers' residences in Kochi, their family home in Wayanad and the office of RBC. Police also searched the building housing the Reporter television channel, where the RBC office is located.

The operation at the channel's premises was led by the Thrikkakara Assistant Commissioner of Police. Investigators are reportedly looking for documents and other evidence connected with the financial transactions surrounding the proposed event.

The searches were conducted on the basis of warrants obtained from a court. A case had earlier been registered at the Kalamassery police station following allegations that money was collected after promising to facilitate Messi's visit to Kerala.

The Kerala government had appointed senior IPS officer and Additional Director General of Police P. Vijayan to oversee the investigation into the controversy. The SIT subsequently began examining the role of the organisers and the movement of funds linked to the proposal.

The Sports Department had earlier found indications of a large-scale fraud allegedly committed using Messi's name. A separate report prepared by the Goods and Services Tax Department also reportedly pointed to irregularities in financial dealings associated with the planned event.

Police are examining whether the organisers made misleading representations about Messi's proposed visit and whether money collected or transferred for the event was diverted or improperly accounted for.

Investigators secured search warrants after gathering preliminary information in the case. The raids are intended to recover contracts, bank records, electronic devices and other documents that could establish the nature and extent of the alleged fraud.

Officials have not yet disclosed whether any incriminating material was seized during the searches. Further action will be taken after the evidence collected from the five locations is examined.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman