Archive · 18 Sep 2026
Kerala Probe Widens Over Failed Messi Event in Kochi
Kerala is investigating a plan to bring Lionel Messi and Argentina’s national team to Kochi.
The event was proposed for 2025 but did not take place as planned.
Officials suspect there may have been financial irregularities connected to the plan.
A Special Investigation Team searched five locations linked to Reporter TV and its promoters.
The searches were approved by court warrants.
Investigators reportedly found documents, a memory card and foreign currency.
They are also examining how Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium was supposed to be transferred or used.
Former Sports Minister V Abdurahiman may be questioned, and Anto Augustine has already been arrested in a separate liquor-related case.
The Enforcement Directorate is also examining the matter under money-laundering laws.
Kerala’s Special Investigation Team is probing alleged financial irregularities linked to a proposed 2025 Messi event in Kochi.
The SIT searched five locations connected to Reporter TV and its promoters under court-issued warrants.
Investigators reportedly recovered documents, a memory card and foreign currency during the 21-hour searches.
The inquiry is examining the proposed transfer and use of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kaloor.
Former Sports Minister V Abdurahiman and Anto Augustine may be questioned, while the Enforcement Directorate is reviewing the case.
- Who
- Kerala’s Special Investigation Team, the Enforcement Directorate, Reporter TV promoter Anto Augustine and other people connected to the proposed event.
- What
- An investigation into alleged financial irregularities surrounding a failed plan to host an Argentina national team match featuring Lionel Messi.
- When
- The event was proposed for 2025; searches took place on Wednesday and Anto Augustine was arrested on Thursday.
- Where
- Kochi and Wayanad, including locations connected to Reporter TV and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kaloor.
- Why
- Authorities are examining alleged irregularities in organizing the event and the transfer or use of the stadium.
- Event
- Proposed Argentina national team match featuring Lionel Messi
- Planned year
- 2025
- Investigation
- Kerala Special Investigation Team inquiry
- Searches
- Five locations in Kochi and Wayanad
- Reported evidence
- Documents, a memory card and foreign currency
- Additional agency
- Enforcement Directorate under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act
- First accused
- Anto Augustine, owner of Reporter TV