Published Aug 28, 2026 | 2:08 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 28, 2026 | 2:08 PM
Enforcement Directorate.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a case under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) over financial transactions linked to the proposed event in Keralam featuring football icon Lionel Messi and the Argentine national team during the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government.
The investigation centres on the alleged transfer of around ₹126 crore to overseas accounts in connection with the proposed event.
The ED is examining whether the transactions violated foreign exchange regulations and has reportedly obtained key documents, including contracts and records relating to the transfer of funds through the State Bank of India (SBI) accounts.
The State GST Department is also conducting a parallel inquiry into the transactions.
The department had earlier issued a demand to Reporter Broadcasting Company (RBC), reportedly seeking around ₹22 crore in service tax.
Officials are examining whether the RBC account was used primarily as an intermediary through which the funds were routed to two foreign financial entities.
The ED is also reportedly examining whether the matter warrants investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Such a step, however, could depend on the registration of a predicate offence by the State Vigilance or other investigating agencies in connection with the alleged financial irregularities.
The possible use of public funds for the foreign trip of former Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman is also under scrutiny.
There is reportedly an uncertainty within the government over whether the Vigilance can register a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act in relation to the expenditure.
A decision on whether to initiate a Vigilance probe is expected to be taken by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan.
The FEMA case marks a significant escalation in the scrutiny of the financial arrangements surrounding the proposed Messi visit and the associated plans to bring the Argentine team to Keralam.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
