The Chennai Central Crime Branch (CCB) police on Friday questioned former School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi in connection with a fraud case involving alleged collection of money from private school managements on the promise of securing government approvals from the School Education Department.

Based on a complaint lodged with the Greater Chennai Police Commissioner, the CCB registered a case and commenced an investigation. Three accused persons — B.T. Arasakumar, Suresh and Raja — were arrested. The investigation has so far established that around ₹18 crore was allegedly collected from private schools in the name of securing government approvals, resulting in a breach of trust and financial fraud.

Based on the evidence collected during the investigation, action was initiated against Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

On September 16, the CCB conducted searches at nine locations, including four premises belonging to Mr. Anbil Mahesh in Chennai and Tiruchi and premises linked to his aides Valadi Karthik, Arun Prakash and Prakash. Property documents, bank details, cheques and electronic devices were seized during the searches. Further investigation is underway.

Acting on a notice issued under Section 35(3) of the BNSS directing him to appear for enquiry, Mr. Anbil Mahesh appeared before the CCB at the Police Commissionerate in Vepery around 11 a.m. on Friday.

Police questioned him in detail about his alleged links with Arasakumar, Muthukumar and private school managements, the alleged collection of “party fund” from school managements, bank accounts identified in connection with the transactions and various financial dealings.

During the enquiry, the police questioned him on the alleged events on a case-by-case basis and confronted him with documentary evidence. His responses and explanations were recorded as part of his statement. The enquiry continued until the evening.

Further investigation into the case is underway.