KOCHI: The Customs Department on Thursday said that the statements made by the main accused Swapna Suresh and Sarith in the dollar smuggling case were of a very serious nature. It informed the court that these the lives of the two could be in danger if their statements come out. It is learnt that Customs have received from them a statement regarding the role of former Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, M Sivasankar in the case.

The custody of Swapna and Sarit has been extended till December 8. The court extended the deadline after customs requested that the two be remanded in custody for seven more days. A statement has been received from them regarding the involvement of M. Sivasankar in the smuggling of dollars. Customs told the court it would conduct a detailed investigation into the matter. It is reported that foreign nationals are involved in dollar debt. According to the investigation team, more evidence can be collected by questioning Swapna, Sarith and Sivasankar together. Customs is preparing for further investigation into the case.