The Chennai Central Crime Branch (CCB) on Wednesday conducted searches at the Tiruchirappalli residence of former Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial fraud involving private schools.
A five-member CCB team began the search at around 7:30 am at Poyyamozhi’s residence in Thennur Anna Nagar, Tiruchirappalli. Police also searched several other locations in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli that were reportedly linked to the former minister.
The investigation concerns allegations that money was collected from private-school managements on promises of obtaining government approvals and clearances, including permanent recognition, school upgrades and permissions related to building plans.
Investigation Focuses on Alleged Payments From Private Schools
According to the investigation, private-school managements were allegedly approached with assurances that required government approvals could be facilitated in return for payments.
The alleged transactions relate to the period when Poyyamozhi was serving as Tamil Nadu’s School Education Minister. Police have been examining financial transactions, documents and other evidence to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged collection of funds.
The case had earlier led to the arrest of B.T. Arasakumar, who is accused of collecting large sums from private-school managements. Police have alleged that he operated an unregistered organisation called the Tamil Nadu Private Schools Association.
Police Probe Reported ₹100 Crore Collection Allegations
A central part of the investigation involves allegations that more than ₹100 crore was collected from private schools in connection with promised approvals and clearances.
Current reports say the investigation has expanded to cover a substantial number of private schools. The South First reported that police had examined complaints involving 177 private schools and questioned more than 250 people, including school representatives and officials connected with the School Education Department.
Police have also been examining bank accounts and financial records linked to people accused in the case. Reports say investigators have seized documents and electronic material during earlier searches as they attempt to establish the flow of funds and the roles of different individuals.
The alleged financial irregularities highlight the importance of proper financial documentation and independent verification of transactions. Businesses and institutions can use professional auditing services in india to strengthen financial controls, maintain records and identify potential irregularities.
Searches Conducted Across Chennai and Tiruchirappalli
The latest operation was not limited to Poyyamozhi’s Tiruchirappalli residence. Police conducted searches at multiple premises in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli connected with the investigation.
Former minister and DMK leader K. N. Nehru reportedly reached Poyyamozhi’s residence while the search was underway but was not permitted to enter the premises during the operation.
The CCB has been examining witness statements, government records, financial information and electronic evidence as part of its investigation. Reports have not established that the allegations against every person being investigated have been proved.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The searches represent an investigative step in the case and do not by themselves establish criminal liability. Authorities are continuing to examine the alleged financial transactions and the possible roles of individuals connected to the private-school approval process.
Details regarding what, if anything, was recovered from the latest searches were not immediately available in the supplied report. Further action will depend on the evidence collected and the findings of the ongoing investigation.