The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out extensive raids at multiple locations in Chennai on Tuesday as part of a money-laundering investigation connected to a major methamphetamine seizure case valued at ₹180 crore, which was registered in 2024. The operation, conducted in coordination with personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), targeted premises across various parts of the city, including Vyasarpadi and Kodungaiyur, beginning in the early morning hours.
Details of the Searches Conducted
The searches were executed at several key locations. These included the residence of an individual named Yesudas in Shastri Nagar, Vyasarpadi, as well as properties in Thiruvalluvar Nagar, Kodungaiyur. Additionally, the home of Monisha Sheela in Kaviyarasu Kannadasan Nagar was also searched. The operations continued well into Tuesday night, with some raids still ongoing at a few sites as of late evening.
Background of the Narcotics Case
According to sources familiar with the investigation, these raids are directly linked to a narcotics smuggling case that was initially detected by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in the previous year. In 2024, DRI officials apprehended Pillaiman Prakash, a resident of Chennai, at the Madurai railway station. He was caught transporting methamphetamine aboard the Podhigai Express, which was traveling from Chennai to Sengottai.
Further investigation by the DRI led to the arrest of Prakash's wife, Monisha Sheela, and his associate, Yesudas, for their alleged involvement in the drug trafficking network. All three individuals were subsequently remanded in judicial custody but later secured bail. Officials have confirmed that the narcotic substances seized during this operation were valued at approximately ₹180 crore, marking it as one of the largest drug seizures ever reported in the state.
Money Laundering Investigation Under PMLA
Based on allegations that the proceeds generated from this narcotics trade were laundered through various channels, the ED initiated a parallel investigation under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Sources indicate that Tuesday's searches were specifically focused on properties and financial transactions linked to Pillaiman Prakash and his associates.
Allegations of Film Producer Involvement
The case had previously garnered significant attention due to allegations regarding the possible involvement of a film producer. However, ED officials have not yet issued an official statement regarding the outcome of the searches. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and examine financial records.
Note: This article is part of our crime reporting coverage. For more updates, follow our news section.
