Expat pension for Shobha on six-months visiting visa; irregularities noticed in 99 accounts 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Shobha, an accused in the Pravasi Board pension fraud case, had opened a pension account in her own name. Only people who have been non-resident for at least two years can apply for the pravasi board pension.

Shobha opened the pension account using the document of flying abroad on a six-month visiting visa. The fraud came to light only when her accounts were scrutinized.

Police informed that irregularities were noticed in 99 accounts. Many corrections were made in the inoperative accounts and some were inserted. Pension was given after creating fake documents.

Apart from Shobha, former contract employee Lina has also been arrested in the case. When the incident came to light, Lina paid Rs 18 lakh back to the board. It is not clear how a contract employee had such a large amount with her.