Organ Trafficking Probe – ED Conducts Raids Across Kerala Hospitals and Homes
Organ Trafficking Probe – The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday launched extensive search operations at several hospitals and private residences across Kerala as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation linked to an alleged organ donation racket. Authorities suspect the network used fabricated documents to facilitate unlawful organ transplant procedures.
The searches were carried out simultaneously at five locations spread across the districts of Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kottayam. Officials involved in the operation said teams began inspections early in the morning and continued examining records throughout the day.
Investigation Originates From Multiple Police Cases
According to officials familiar with the matter, the central agency initiated its inquiry after reviewing several First Information Reports filed by police authorities in different parts of the state. These cases pointed to the existence of an organised network allegedly engaged in arranging illegal organ donations over an extended period.
Preliminary findings suggested that certain individuals functioned as intermediaries, connecting organ donors with recipients and coordinating procedures through medical institutions. Investigators believe large sums of money may have been exchanged in the process, leading the agency to open a money laundering case under relevant provisions.
Hospitals Under Scanner for Alleged Financial Links
Sources indicated that some hospitals came under scrutiny due to their alleged financial transactions with the main accused, identified as Najeeb. In Kochi alone, investigators conducted searches at three separate locations connected to the case.
Officials focused on collecting evidence related to financial dealings, banking activities, and medical documentation associated with organ donation procedures. Investigators are expected to analyse the seized materials to determine whether illegal financial gains were generated through the alleged network.
Forged Documents Used to Circumvent Verification Process
Police investigations have revealed that organ donation approvals require multiple layers of verification and certification. These typically involve documentation and clearances from medical professionals, local authorities, law enforcement agencies, and elected public representatives.
Authorities allege that the accused bypassed these safeguards through the use of forged records. Investigators claim fake certificates and fabricated endorsements were used to create the appearance of compliance with mandatory procedures.
Network Allegedly Active Since 2023
Based on information contained in police complaints, the group is believed to have been operating since August 2023. Investigators allege that forged letterheads belonging to two private hospitals in Kochi were used in the scheme.
In addition, the network is accused of producing counterfeit police clearance certificates and falsified correspondence purportedly issued by Members of the Legislative Assembly, Members of Parliament, and senior police officials. Such documents were allegedly presented to support organ donation applications and approvals.
Wider Statewide Operations Under Examination
Police have also alleged that recommendation letters carrying the names of several well-known medical practitioners were fraudulently created as part of the operation. Investigators are examining whether these documents played a role in securing approvals for transplant procedures.
Since cases connected to the alleged racket have surfaced in multiple districts, authorities believe the network may have operated across different parts of Kerala rather than being limited to a single region. The ongoing investigation aims to identify all individuals involved and trace the movement of funds linked to the suspected activities.
Key Accused Arrested Last Month
The primary accused in the case, Najeeb, who hails from Kasaragod district, was arrested by police in Uttar Pradesh last month. His arrest marked a significant development in the investigation, which has since expanded to include financial transactions and institutional links associated with the alleged organ donation network.
Authorities have not disclosed the full extent of the evidence collected during Thursday’s searches, and further action is expected after the examination of documents and financial records seized during the operation.