Chennai: The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) is searching for Ratheesh (35), described as a close associate of DMK former minister Senthil Balaji, in connection with an alleged corruption case involving TASMAC.
The case stems from allegations that irregularities occurred during the previous DMK government in TASMAC’s liquor procurement, sales and cargo transportation. DVAC registered a case and recently conducted searches at 45 locations, during which officials said they seized materials indicating large-scale corruption.
After examining the seized documents and evidence, investigators said Senthil Balaji and Ratheesh appeared to have played key roles in the alleged scheme. DVAC also claimed that IAS officer Visagan was involved as an accomplice.
A total of 11 people, including Senthil Balaji, have been named in the case, DVAC said. Ratheesh is currently absconding, and officials are checking information suggesting he may have escaped abroad by sea.
DVAC officials said Ratheesh had functioned as a power centre within TASMAC and that procurement was allegedly routed to favoured distilleries based on his directions. They added that he would not be able to evade the investigation.
