Messi visit row in Keralam: Police register FIR against Anto Augustine, Reporter Broadcasting Company

Accused booked on charges of cheating and criminal conspiracy

Updated - September 16, 2026 11:25 am IST - KOCHI

Searches being conducted at the office of Malayalam news channel Reporter TV in Kochi on Wednesday (September 16, 2026) | Photo Credit: H. Vibhu

The Kalamassery police on Tuesday (September 15, 2026) registered a first information report (FIR) in connection with the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) ongoing probe into alleged financial misappropriation and tax evasion linked to a failed attempt to bring the Argentina national team and its former captain Lionel Messi for an international match in Kochi during the previous LDF government’s tenure.

The FIR arraigned, among others, Anto Augustine, the authorised signatory of Reporter Broadcasting Company Private Limited, and the company itself. The accused have been booked on charges of cheating and criminal conspiracy.

According to the FIR, the accused entered into a criminal conspiracy dating back to before December 20, 2024, when “illegal and fake” details were inserted into the agreement signed with the Argentina Football Association, with the intent of cheating the State government and the public for profiteering.

The FIR further alleged that the accused conspired to gain custody of the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium at Kaloor by securing exemption from the ₹5 crore security deposit on September 26, 2025.

Prima facie grounds for offence: ADGP

ADGP P. Vijayan, who heads the SIT, said the FIR was registered after a preliminary inquiry found prima facie grounds for the offence. He noted that searches were carried out based on a Magistrate’s warrant at places and institutions linked to the accused, where documents connected to the offence were likely to be found. The police will verify the digital evidence, portions of which are yet to be made accessible to investigators, Mr. Vijayan added.

Mr. Augustine, however, said that to date, the SIT had not asked him anything about the Messi controversy, which he had already clarified and was willing to explain again if served a notice. He alleged that the SIT appeared more interested in identifying the source of certain news telecast by Reporter TV, which he insisted he would not reveal.

“I have not been given a copy of the FIR. I have not claimed any benefit of journalistic privilege. While I have no objection to searches being conducted at my home and office, what was the need to enter the newsroom, disrupt input calls, and seize the mobile phones of journalists who have nothing to do with the case? This is worse than what happened during the Emergency,” Mr. Augustine said.

He further alleged that the GST department’s report on the matter had been prepared without incorporating his version.

Published - September 16, 2026 11:21 am IST

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