Kerala Crime Branch Probes Athira Gold and Silks Fraud Cases

Kochi, Aug 25 (PTI): The Crime Branch unit of the Kerala police has taken charge of the investigation into multiple cases lodged against the Kochi-based firm, Athira Gold and Silks. This firm stands accused of defrauding numerous individuals through dubious gold schemes and soliciting investments. The Crime Branch sources revealed on Monday that the Economic Offence Wing (EOW) from the Ernakulam Unit began re-registering these cases last week.

Officials reported that around 15 cases, initially filed at the Ernakulam Central Police Station, have already been transferred to the Crime Branch, with the remaining cases to follow shortly. In total, approximately 50 cases have been filed against Athira Gold and Silks just within the Ernakulam Central Police Station. Furthermore, victims have lodged complaints in various other police stations under the Ernakulam Rural Police jurisdiction.

"We are currently in the process of re-registering the FIRs transferred by the local police," a Crime Branch EOW officer stated. "The investigation will begin following the completion of these preliminary procedures. We plan to question the firm’s owners once more. They were previously arrested by the police earlier this year."

The firm’s owners, RJ Antony, RJ Joseph, RJ Johnson, and RJ Joby, were apprehended in February but have since been granted bail by the Kerala High Court, the officer added.

Athira Gold and Silks used to operate a multi-storey jewelry store at the Kerala High Court Junction in Kochi, with additional branches in the coastal regions of the Ernakulam and Thrissur districts.

Police officials allege that Athira Gold and Silks attracted investments by promising returns as high as 12 percent interest, alongside a gold scheme permitting investors to purchase gold ornaments at the current market rate at a later date.

The attractive returns reportedly drew in many individuals, including several retirees who invested their savings, and parents who deposited money intended for their children's weddings. Over 500 investors have already filed complaints with the police, and more are anticipated.

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