Police launch special operation to stop illegal cash flow ahead of elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Police have launched a special operation to prevent the massive influx of black money, drugs, and gold into the state during the election season. Round-the-clock inspections are being conducted at 69 border check posts, where CCTV cameras have also been installed.

Six teams, including three flying squads, have been deployed in each constituency to track black money. The number of squads has been doubled in areas that previously witnessed such activities. The Election Commission has appointed IG P Prakash to coordinate efforts to detect black money and drugs.

In previous elections, large amounts of unaccounted cash were transported from other states through private buses and even flights. This time, authorities have seized more drugs so far. Officials believe that the inflow of black money may increase as the election campaign nears its final stages. The Commission has instructed strict monitoring of campaign spending and efforts to curb illegal cash flow. In each constituency, three flying squads, static surveillance teams, and police units will be deployed for inspections. The operations to detect black money will be led by tahsildars and police officers.

In northern districts, police, excise, and commercial tax departments are conducting checks along the borders. The Election Commission has also directed the Railway Protection Force, airport authorities, CISF, Customs, and the Income Tax Department to carry out inspections. Special intelligence units have been set up at airports to monitor illegal cash movement. Chartered flights, private aircraft, and helicopters are also being checked. Bringing in cash or gold without proper documentation through airports will not be allowed.

Banks have been instructed to report withdrawals exceeding Rs 10 lakh from individual accounts. Police have been directed to hand over any seizure above Rs 10 lakh to the Income Tax Department. While individuals are allowed to carry large amounts of cash for personal use, they must be able to explain the source and purpose of the money.

Central agencies join the operation
The Income Tax Department has opened a control room in Kochi to monitor activities in the state and border areas. The aim is to prevent the use of black money to influence voters. Officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have also been deployed. Digital transactions will be monitored by the Enforcement Directorate.

• Unaccounted cash found in campaign vehicles or with political leaders will be confiscated, and it may take weeks to recover it.
• All financial transactions of candidates, including donations, must be conducted through bank accounts. Banks must report such transactions, and campaign spending must follow the guidelines set by the Election Commission.