Investigation Launched into Alleged Fraud Surrounding Messi's Visit to Kerala

The Kerala Sports Minister, OJ Jeneesh, has announced an investigation into alleged fraud concerning promises to bring Lionel Messi to the state. The inquiry will explore the involvement of Sports Department officials and utilize departmental resources. Additionally, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has gathered evidence during raids at a news channel's offices as part of the probe into financial irregularities linked to Messi's proposed visit. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala confirmed that the investigation is legally mandated and follows a request from the Sports Ministry. This case is being described as potentially the largest fraud during the previous government's tenure.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 21, 2026, 20:12 IST

Investigation into Alleged Fraud

On Monday, OJ Jeneesh, the Sports Minister of Kerala, announced that an inquiry will be initiated regarding the purported fraud related to promises of bringing Lionel Messi to the state. This investigation will also assess whether any officials from the Sports Department had conflicts of interest or were involved in the scheme. The inquiry will utilize the available resources within the department.

"We will look into the potential involvement of Sports Department officials and any vested interests they may have had. The investigation will be carried out with the manpower we have at our disposal," Jeneesh informed reporters.

SIT Collects Evidence in Reporter TV Raid

On Thursday, Ramesh Chennithala, the Home Minister of Kerala, revealed that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has collected crucial evidence during raids conducted at the offices of a news channel and the residences of its owners. This action is part of the investigation into alleged financial misconduct associated with Messi's anticipated visit along with the Argentine football team.

"We have gathered necessary evidence from the inspection at Reporter TV's office. At this moment, we cannot disclose specific details about the evidence collected. Who claimed that no evidence was found?" Chennithala stated to the media.

Chennithala emphasized that the SIT is executing a legally mandated investigation into the alleged fraud concerning Messi's proposed visit to Kerala. He noted that this inquiry was initiated following a request from the Sports Ministry, which was subsequently forwarded to the Home Department by the Chief Minister. The raid on Reporter TV was conducted under a legitimate search warrant.

"The SIT is advancing with the investigation in compliance with legal protocols. This case pertains to what is claimed to be the largest fraud perpetrated during the previous administration in the name of bringing football star Lionel Messi to Kerala," he added.