Mollywood Shaken: Customs Raids Homes of Stars Prithviraj & Dulquer Salmaan in Massive Tax Evasion Crackdown
In a shocking development that has sent ripples across the Malayalam film industry, Customs officials have conducted simultaneous raids at the residences of superstar actors Prithviraj Sukumaran and Dulquer Salmaan. The raids are part of a widespread investigation, code-named "Operation Numkhor," targeting a sophisticated racket involved in the illegal import and tax evasion of luxury vehicles from Bhutan. While authorities confirm the actors are cooperating, the raids highlight a major probe into one of the country's biggest smuggling networks.
The "Operation Numkhor" Investigation: The Smuggling Racket Exposed
"Operation Numkhor" is a comprehensive crackdown on a large-scale racket that allegedly smuggles luxury vehicles into India. According to Customs officials, high-end, second-hand vehicles—including expensive SUVs—are brought into the country from Bhutan without paying the massive customs duties. The vehicles are then allegedly registered using forged documents, sometimes misusing the names of Indian and American embassies and the Indian Army to create fake papers. The operation has reportedly identified over 150 such vehicles in Kerala alone, with 36 already seized. This intricate network not only involves tax evasion but also poses a threat to national security, as some of these illegally imported vehicles have reportedly been used for smuggling gold and narcotics.
Why Were the Stars' Homes Raided?
The raids on the homes of Prithviraj and Dulquer Salmaan are part of a larger procedural check targeting high-net-worth individuals who may have purchased these illegally imported vehicles. Customs officials have stated that they are examining the documents of the actors' cars to verify their legitimacy. While Prithviraj’s residence was visited, no vehicles were seized from his property. However, two vehicles belonging to Dulquer Salmaan have been identified and seized as part of the investigation. Authorities have clarified that while the actors may have purchased the vehicles, their direct involvement in the smuggling racket is yet to be determined. The Customs Commissioner has indicated that both stars will be summoned for further questioning and document verification.
Industry on Edge and a Call for Transparency
The news of the raids has sent a wave of concern throughout the film fraternity. While the raids underscore the government's resolve to curb economic fraud, they have also put the spotlight on celebrities and their assets. The industry is awaiting official statements from the actors to provide clarity on the situation. The ongoing investigation is expected to expose more details of the smuggling racket, with more raids and summons anticipated for others on the list of vehicle buyers. This incident serves as a major wake-up call for the public and celebrities to ensure all high-value purchases are made with complete transparency and due diligence.