The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday, 18 August searched the residences of two close aides of Mohammed Riyas — son-in-law of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and a Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] MLA from Beypore — as part of its continuing probe into the controversial 'monthly payment' case. The searches, spread across eight locations including Kozhikode, mark the third round of large-scale ED operations in Kerala linked to the case.

What the Searches Covered

A four-member team led by an ED Assistant Director conducted the searches in Kozhikode, where the bulk of Tuesday's operations were concentrated. Among the key locations raided was the residence of Nandulal, a former District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) coordinator and a close associate of Riyas. Investigators are understood to be examining his financial transactions, past dealings, and possible links with individuals and entities already under the agency's scanner. Digital devices and financial records were also seized for scrutiny.

Roots of the Probe

The investigation traces back to alleged financial irregularities involving Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) and Exalogic, the now-defunct IT firm associated with Veena Vijayan — daughter of Pinarayi Vijayan and wife of Riyas. The ED has been examining allegations of large financial transfers made without corresponding services rendered, and possible money-laundering links under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Veena has been questioned multiple times by the agency, and her premises have previously come under scrutiny.

The Expanding Family Circle

The probe's reach has been steadily widening. A few months prior to Tuesday's searches, the ED had visited the residence of Riyas's parents, adding another dimension to the investigation. The latest searches of his close associates further extend that perimeter. Notably, Riyas — who retained the Beypore Assembly seat in the 2026 elections — has consistently declined to comment on the ED investigation, reportedly deflecting reporters' questions on multiple occasions, including with remarks such as 'Happy Onam.'

Approaching the Charge Sheet Stage

According to reports, the ED is believed to be entering the final stage of evidence consolidation before filing its charge sheet. Further questioning of individuals is expected in the coming days. The agency is reportedly seeking to firm up financial and digital evidence against those likely to be named in the charge sheet.

Political Reactions

The CPI(M) and its leaders have alleged that the ED's actions are politically motivated. The agency, however, maintains that its investigation is grounded in suspected financial irregularities and offences under the PMLA. With the probe inching toward the charge sheet stage, the central question is whether the latest searches will draw more individuals, companies, or politically prominent figures into its ambit.