Kochi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached an immovable property worth over Rs 39 lakh belonging to popular Malayalam actor Jayasurya in connection with an alleged online bidding investment scam, official sources said on Wednesday.
The action has been taken under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). According to sources, the attached asset is located in Kerala and is valued at Rs 39.01 lakh. The agency believes the property is linked to proceeds under investigation in the case.
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
Case linked to ‘Save Box’ app
The money laundering probe is related to an online bidding and investment application named ‘Save Box’. Investigators allege that the app lured investors by promising attractive returns and collected funds through misleading assurances.
As per the ED’s findings so far, the scheme was allegedly operated by a person identified as Swathi Rahim. Authorities are examining the flow of funds and the extent of financial transactions connected to the platform.
Actor questioned earlier
Sources said Jayasurya and his wife were questioned by the central agency in December 2025. The questioning reportedly focused on payments received in connection with promotional activities for the investment platform.
Investigators are probing whether the funds paid to the actor as part of brand endorsement arrangements were sourced from the alleged fraudulent collections made through the app.
Probe originates from multiple FIRs
The ED’s case stems from at least four FIRs registered by the Thrissur East Police in Kerala. Complainants had alleged that they were induced to invest money in the scheme with promises of high returns. According to police complaints, initial payouts were allegedly made to build trust, after which larger investments were sought and payments eventually stopped.
Based on these FIRs, the ED initiated a money laundering investigation and traced financial transactions to determine whether the funds constituted “proceeds of crime” under PMLA provisions.
Nature of attachment
On Tuesday, the agency issued a provisional attachment order to freeze the immovable property. Officials clarified that the attachment is temporary and subject to confirmation by the adjudicating authority under the PMLA.
The purpose of such attachment, legal experts note, is to prevent the sale, transfer or alienation of assets during the pendency of the investigation. If charges are eventually established, the assets may be confiscated in accordance with law.
Further action not ruled out
The ED is examining bank statements, digital trails and related documentation to map the layering and routing of funds. Statements of relevant individuals have also been recorded as part of the probe.
At this stage, the agency has not announced any final findings regarding the actor’s role. The matter remains under investigation, and further action — including additional attachments or summons — may follow depending on the outcome of ongoing scrutiny.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
