Kochi : In the aftermath of arrest Friday in the fake antique fraud case, K Sudhakaran said he was ready to step down as KPCC President and was discussing the matter within. There will be nothing on his part that will put Party in the harm’s way, Sudhakaran said, speaking with media in Kochi.
Responding to reporters, Sudhakaran maintained his innocence on charges against him and said he had no fear or anxiety about facing the case. He had faith in the justice system, Sudhakaran added.
Backdrop
Monson Mavunkal, a master conman from Chertala, swindled over Rs 10 crore from several people by selling ‘antiques’ which were in fact refurbished throwaways from film shooting sets. He also duped a different set of people by getting them to invest money into the business that was made to appear like a thriving empire. Eventually, the scam blew up and police arrested Monson in 2021.
The KPCC president K Sudhakaran - a longtime friend of Monson was a frequent visitor to the fake antique dealer’s house in Kochi and often stayed over. Sudhakaran was arrested on 23rd June by Crime Branch after 7 hours of their questioning in the case.
Sudhakaran came on the radar following complaints that Sudhakaran acted as middleman to much of Monson’s racketeering. Those who lost money blamed the Congress veteran’s personal presence and assurance during deals as being catalyst to their investments.
Crime Branch collected testimonies, phone records and other digital evidences including footage that corroborated with witnesses account that Sudhakaran was present at Monson’s house during some of his dubious deals.
Incidentally, Monson was recently arrested under POCSO for raping the minor daughter of a maid who worked at his house.
