Judicial Custody for Reporter TV’s Managing Director
The Managing Director of Malayalam news channel Reporter TV, Anto Augustine, has been placed in judicial custody for 14 days by a Kerala court. This decision is linked to a case involving the alleged possession of alcohol exceeding the limits outlined in the Kerala Abkari Act.
The order was issued late on Thursday by Judicial First Class Magistrate Adheena Biju at Sulthan Bathery. Augustine’s arrest followed a search operation conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kerala Police at his offices and residences. This search was integral to an ongoing investigation into suspected financial fraud related to a failed football event featuring the Argentinian national team and renowned footballer Lionel Messi. Reporter Broadcasting Company, under Augustine’s leadership, was the primary commercial sponsor of the event.
Seizure of Excessive Liquor
During a raid at Augustine’s family residence in Wayanad, authorities discovered approximately 67 litres of foreign liquor and wine, surpassing the legally allowed limit for personal possession. This led to Augustine’s arrest by the Excise Department in the early hours of Thursday.
Augustine faces charges under Sections 55(i), 55(a), and 58 of the Kerala Abkari Act. These sections address the unlawful import, export, transport, sale, and possession of liquor or intoxicating substances.
