Monson without clear answers as Crime Branch begin interrogation

KOCHI: On the first day of questioning, Monson Mavunkal, the accused in the case of swindling crores of rupees using the influence of top police officials and politicians under the guise of antiquities trade, did not give a clear answer to the crime branch officials. It is reported that many questions remain unanswered. The probe team, headed by Crime Branch SP MJ Sojan, mainly asked who had forged the documents, whether the antiquities had been smuggled out of the country and what had been done with the money obtained through fraud. Information was also sought on benami transactions.

The crime branch conducted a lightning search of Monson's homes in Kaloor and Cherthala yesterday and collected crucial documents.

The forest, customs and motor vehicle department also inspected the house in Kaloor. Officials removed the status boards in the name of the organizations that were set up in front of the house. There are indications that the central agencies will reach the house in Kaloor today.

On Tuesday, Monson was served a notice by customs officials to produce details of foreign-made vehicles. Many of the cars were also found to be inoperable.

A detailed statement from the complainants will be recorded today. Some were called to the crime branch office yesterday to testify.

Statements of Monson's aides and bodyguards were also collected. It is learnt that they have given statements they were unaware of financial transactions and that Monson was a fraud.

The bodyguards were hired for a daily wage of Rs 2,500. About 12 bodyguards with guns were with Monson at all times. The investigating officer said that the guns they carried were toys.

The crime branch is also looking into whether there were any financial dealings with the police officers facing allegations or whether they provided assistance. The crime branch expects new complaints to arrive in the coming days.