Kochi, December 30, 2025 – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has questioned prominent Malayalam actor Jayasurya in connection with an ongoing investigation into Save Box, an online investment platform accused of defrauding investors of crores of rupees. The actor, who served as a brand ambassador for the app, was called to the ED’s Kochi office on Monday to clarify his association with the platform.

Focus on Celebrity Endorsements

Officials emphasized that the questioning does not imply wrongdoing on the part of Jayasurya. Investigators are examining the role of celebrity endorsements in promoting Save Box, aiming to determine whether the actor had any financial dealings with the platform’s promoters. This follows an earlier round of inquiries on December 24, as authorities continue to reconstruct the financial and promotional structure of the scheme.

The Save Box Saga

Save Box, launched in 2019 by Thrissur native Swadiq Rahim, billed itself as India’s first online auction and investment platform. It combined auction-based sales, investment opportunities, and startup funding claims, marketing itself as a disruptive force in digital finance.

Authorities allege that the platform solicited significant funds from investors by promising high returns that never materialized. Rahim was arrested in 2023 by the Thrissur East Police for allegedly duping investors, and the probe has since expanded to examine the financial and promotional networks behind Save Box.

Promises and Publicity

Investigators say Save Box offered a variety of schemes to attract funds, including auctions of electronic goods, franchise opportunities under Save Box Express, startup funding, and cryptocurrency-related ventures. Aggressive publicity campaigns, including celebrity endorsements and staged appearances, were allegedly used to bolster investor confidence.

Despite these assurances, investors reportedly did not receive the returns promised, prompting the ongoing investigation and Rahim’s arrest.

Investigating Industry Connections

Rahim has acted in two films and co-produced another, connections authorities believe may have been leveraged to build trust among investors. ED officials are reviewing Jayasurya’s public appearances, promotional material, and any possible financial transactions tied to his endorsement to understand the role of celebrity influence in soliciting investments.

The probe continues as the Enforcement Directorate seeks to map the full scope of the alleged fraud and its promotional channels.

Ahmedabad / Jaipur / Bhiwadi, December 29, 2025 – In a significant strike against organised narcotics, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), in collaboration with the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and local police, dismantled an illegal drug manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, arresting three key suspects. Authorities seized approximately 22 kilograms of psychotropic substances, revealing a sophisticated interstate drug network operating under the cover of a pharmaceutical company.

Intelligence-Led Operation

According to the ATS, the raid targeted APL Pharma, located in the RIICO Industrial Area, Bhiwadi, following credible intelligence on illicit drug production. Surveillance and human intelligence confirmed the operation, leading to the joint raid on December 28, 2025.

While the premises appeared to function as a legitimate pharmaceutical facility, officers discovered a fully operational production line manufacturing Alprazolam and other banned psychotropic drugs without any legal license or authorization. The seizure included 5 kg of Alprazolam and 17 kg of semi-processed psychotropic substances, indicating large-scale, sustained production.

Arrests and Detentions

The three arrested individuals are:

• Anshul Anilkumar Shastri (40) – Agra, Uttar Pradesh
• Akhilesh Kumar Parasnath Maurya (41) – Tapukara, Rajasthan
• Krishna Kumar Shrei Yadav (33) – Tapukara, Rajasthan

Three labourers present at the site were also detained for questioning to determine their involvement in the illegal operations.

Scale and Method of Operation

Investigators revealed that the unit operated systematically, producing controlled substances over several months. Raw materials, precursor chemicals, and intermediate products recovered from the site indicate a multi-stage production process capable of sustained output.

Alprazolam, widely prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, is a controlled psychotropic drug under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act due to its high abuse potential. Illegal manufacturing and distribution of such substances carry severe legal consequences in India.

Legal Proceedings

A case has been registered at the Bhiwadi Phase-3 (UIT) Sector-3 police station under relevant sections of the NDPS Act. The arrested individuals face charges for illegal manufacture and possession of psychotropic drugs. Authorities are investigating whether the substances were intended for local distribution, neighboring states, or wider national black markets.

Supply Chain and Broader Investigation

The ATS and Rajasthan Police are probing the wider network, focusing on:

• Sources of raw materials and chemicals
• Interstate distribution channels
• Potential links to organised crime syndicates
• Financial transactions and communications

Officials noted that the seizure of 22 kg of contraband suggests prolonged activity, with further arrests expected as the investigation continues.

Inter-State Cooperation Against Organised Crime

This operation is part of Gujarat ATS’s broader campaign against organised crime and illegal narcotics. Earlier in December, the agency had dismantled another illegal drug unit in Jodhpur, seizing 40 kg of liquid mephedrone.

A senior ATS spokesperson emphasized the importance of inter-state coordination: “Criminal networks operate across borders; effective policing requires cooperation between states.” Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to chemical procurement or drug distribution.

The investigation is ongoing, and further updates on arrests, court proceedings, and seizures will be released as they occur.