KOCHI/WAYANAD: In a major development, Anto Augustine, Managing Director and authorized signatory of Reporter Broadcasting Company (Reporter TV), was arrested by the Excise Department following the recovery of a massive unauthorized liquor stash from his residence.
Dramatics at the Media Headquarters
The Kalpetta Excise team, led by Assistant Commissioner Baiju, took Anto Augustine into custody from the Reporter TV headquarters in Kalamassery, Kochi. High drama unfolded for hours as Augustine initially refused to cooperate, insisting on being presented with a physical hard copy of the FIR rather than a digital version. He surrendered after officials delivered the physical copy. He was subsequently taken to the Aluva District Hospital for medical examination before being produced before the Bathery Judicial First Class Magistrate Court.
Uncovered During Fraud Probes
The illegal stash was discovered when a Special Investigation Team (SIT) raided Augustine’s home at Vazhavatta in Wayanad. The police were conducting searches linked to a multi-crore financial fraud case surrounding a proposed Argentina national team and Lionel Messi visit to Kerala. During the search, officers recovered over 67 liters of alcohol, including 43 liters of foreign liquor and substantial quantities of wine—far exceeding the permissible limit allowed for personal possession under the Kerala Abkari Act.
Augustine has been charged under non-bailable Sections 55(a), 55(i), and 58 of the Kerala Abkari Act, which cover illegal transport/possession, illicit storage, and possession of untaxed liquor.
