THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the gold smuggling case in Thiruvananthapuram. The NIA has informed this to the High Court through centre’s advocate. The case was handed over to the NIA last night.

According to intelligence reports, some amongst gold smugglers have links with the terrorist organisation ISIS. It was in this context the case was referred to the NIA.

The top officials of the centre had examined the issue. The case was handed over to the NIA with the permission of the Prime Minister. Reports said the gold smuggled to Kerala is being used for anti-national interests. It is learned that many who joined ISIS from Kerala are behind in bringing gold.

Meantime, customs agent Hariraj said he has no role in the gold smuggling. I have not contacted anyone for the release of the diplomatic bag. There were reports that he budged pressure on the customs for the release of the bag.