Chennai: In a significant development, the Hon’ble PMLA Special Court in Chennai, through an order dated 11.01.2024, convicted R. Sekar and K. Anwar Hussain under the PMLA, 2002. The duo, charged with offenses related to a criminal conspiracy during 2007-2009, have been sentenced to 3 years of Rigorous Imprisonment and fined Rs. 5,000 each.
The conviction stems from a Prosecution Complaint filed in 2015 against R. Sekar and K. Anwar Hussain. R. Sekar, the accused, served as the Protector of Emigrants & Director at the Office of Protector of Emigrants (POE), Chennai. During his tenure, he conspired with travel agent K. Anwar Hussain of M/s Classic Tours & Travels to abuse his official position. In return for Emigration clearance, Sekar allegedly collected bribes totaling Rs. 2,03,94,900 from various Recruiting Agents.
“The offenses committed by R. Sekar and K. Anwar Hussain fall under the provisions of the IPC, 1860, and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, both scheduled offenses under the PMLA, 2002”.
The investigation revealed that Proceeds of the Crime (PoC) amounting to Rs. 2,03,94,900, linked to the criminal conspiracy, were provisionally attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The Hon’ble Adjudicating Authority, PMLA, New Delhi, subsequently confirmed these attachments.
The conviction marks a significant milestone in the fight against corruption and malpractices within official capacities. The legal proceedings reinforce the commitment to uphold the rule of law and ensure that those engaging in corruption face the consequences of their actions. This development serves as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar offenses, sending a strong message about the consequences of abusing public office for personal gain.
