Bar bribery inquiry: Examination near Mani's official residence

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As the investigation into bar bribery enters the final phase, Vigilance officials have conducted search in areas close to tainted Minister K M Mani's official residence.

The examination was on the basis of the statement given by Bar owner Biju Ramesh. But according to reports, the officials have not entered the official residence of the minister.

Biju Ramesh had given the statement that those who handed over money to Mani had stayed in his hotel and travelled in his car. Based on this information, statement was taken from Biju’s driver Ambili. According to sources, Vigilance conducted search on Tuesday to verify the authenticity of Ambili’s statement. They also checked whether one could view from outside what was happening inside.   

Though there is evidence to support the allegation that bar owners had reached the minister’s house with bribe amount, there is no evidence to prove that money was handed over to him. The search outside was also to look for some evidence in this regard.

Meanwhile, Bar Hotel Owners’ Association President Rajkumar Unni complained that Vigilance SP had been forcing them to give statement.

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