Rs 114M Suitcase Scandal: FCC to Verify Photos Authenticity Involving Ex-PM

Following the seizure of a staggering Rs 113.8 million, the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) is now embarking on the critical task of confirming the authenticity of photographs featuring former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth alongside businessman Josian Deelawon. These images, believed to potentially illuminate the connections between these two key figures and allegations surrounding money transfers, have become central to the ongoing investigation.

Pravind Jugnauth has vehemently claimed that he is the target of a conspiracy, while Deelawon insisted, “the photos speak for themselves.”

The FCC is diligently scrutinising a series of images circulating on social media depicting Jugnauth dining with Deelawon, as well as other high-profile business figures.

These snapshots, taken at various restaurants and the Maradiva Hotel, were seized by the FCC and have already been submitted as evidence after Deelawon confirmed their authenticity.

Jugnauth has previously suggested that Deelawon was merely one of many supporters of the Militant Socialist Movement he encountered daily, asserting he did not know him personally.

In stark contrast, Deelawon maintained he has known Jugnauth for approximately a decade, emphasising their closeness even during the downfall of the Alliance Lepep in the recent general elections.

Deelawon boldly asserted that Jugnauth asked him to store suitcases filled with cash, including foreign currency—a claim that has added fuel to the already fiery allegations.

Among the images the FCC is analysing is one taken at the Alchemy Restaurant and Bar in Grand-Baie, which belongs to Deelawon.

This photograph depicts Jugnauth posing with Deelawon and restaurant staff.

Another image shows the former Prime Minister seated at a table with his brother-in-law Sanjiv Ramdanee on one side and Deelawon on the other.

“The photos speak for themselves,” Deelawon reiterated during his questioning by investigators.

He has not shied away from acknowledging his friendship with Ramdanee, the director of the Maradiva Hotel and Jugnauth’s brother-in-law, asserting that discussions about the suitcase transfers took place there.

Deelawon, who is currently facing provisional charges of money laundering himself, has also alleged that Devianee Ramchurn, a close associate of the Jugnauth family, repeatedly made trips between Jugnauth’s home on Angus Road and the parking lot of My Holidays Ltd in Pointe-aux-Canonniers to deposit the cash-filled suitcases.

This version of events was firmly denied by Jugnauth during his own interrogation on the evening of February 15.

On that night, Jugnauth, Ramchurn, Deelawon, and Chandradeo Oomah were all detained, but Jugnauth was released on bail the following day, Sunday, February 16, 2025, after appearing before the Weekend Court.

The scandal erupted during an operation conducted by the Major Crimes Investigation Team (MCIT) on February 14 and 15, which resulted in the seizure of several suitcases containing the substantial amount of Rs 113.8 million from My Holidays Ltd’s headquarters, as well as from the home of the company’s accountant, Chandradeo Oomah. Deelawon contended that these funds are connected to Jugnauth and his associates.

Since his release, Jugnauth has dismissed these allegations as “malicious,” claiming they are designed to implicate him in this money laundering affair.

As the investigation unfolds, a particularly intriguing object has surfaced: a small safe confiscated from the My Holidays Ltd office.

This safe has captured the FCC’s curiosity, as it remained unopened and is now regarded as critical evidence.

When questioned, Deelawon reportedly stated he had forgotten the combination: “I don’t remember the code. It’s been ages since I used that safe.”

The official opening of the safe is expected to take place within the week, in the presence of Deelawon, marking yet another crucial step in this unfolding drama.

Source: Defi Media