ED Raids Ex-AIADMK Minister in Money Laundering Probe

The Enforcement Directorate has conducted raids against former AIADMK minister Vaithiyalingam in a money laundering investigation. The searches are linked to alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as Tamil Nadu's housing development minister. Raids took place across four cities, including Chennai.

In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday carried out searches at the premises of former AIADMK minister Vaithiyalingam. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into a money laundering case, according to official sources.

Operating under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the enforcement agents executed searches across four Tamil Nadu cities, including the capital city of Chennai. The probe focuses on Vaithiyalingam's alleged involvement in receiving illicit funds during his tenure as Tamil Nadu's housing development minister.

Reports suggest that funds, considered to be 'tainted', entered the financial system as unsecured loans linked to his associates. This move comes despite Vaithiyalingam being expelled alongside O Panneerselvam from the AIADMK following internal leadership challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)