Flying Squad Snags Rs 2.44 Crore in Pre-Election Cash Bust

In a critical operation before the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, the Election Flying Squad confiscated Rs 2.44 crore of unaccounted cash near Perambalur. The seizure occurred at Sengunam village, led by Excise Supervisory Officer Palaniselvan during an ordinary vehicle check.

Investigators uncovered five cartons filled with Rs 500 currency notes totalling Rs 2,44,97,500 in the car's trunk. Jayaraman, a Deputy Organiser of the DMK District Farmers' Wing, and Rajesh Krishnan were identified as the vehicle's occupants, as per the tehsildar.

The confiscated amount has been transferred to Perambalur Assembly Constituency Election Officer Anitha. Income Tax Department officials are conducting further investigations to determine if the funds were meant for voter inducement.

According to an April 17 press release, the Election Commission of India has already seized Rs 78 crore in cash within Tamil Nadu, alongside significant quantities of liquor, drugs, precious metals, and other freebies, as part of a larger effort to ensure free and fair elections. Over 2,283 Flying Squad Teams have been deployed statewide to swiftly address complaints.

Tamil Nadu voters will head to the polls on April 23, with results expected on May 4. The main contenders are the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance, while Vijay-led TVK aims to introduce a three-way race.