Thiruvananthapuram: More than a thousand people fell for the promise made by a teenager and lost crores of rupees. The victims included film stars, judicial officers and top businessmen, among others.
Sabarinath had the gift of the gab which was his USP. It was estimated that his company Total 4 You had collected Rs 50 crore during the first year itself. However, according to crime branch DySP P Raghu, who conducted the enquiry into the case, the actual figure would be around Rs 200 crore. Many people did not file a complaint with the police. The trial in the cases against Sabarinath is yet to be completed.
His first ventures were Ernest, SJR and Total solutions which were opened at Medical college in Thiruvananthapuram, Capital towers, Statue and Punnapuram. Investors were promised doubling of their money and 20% agent commission. After the business collapsed, Sabarinath was arrested from Nagercoil on August 1, 2008. He was aged 19 at that time.
He went into hiding for three years after being granted bail in March 2011. When he was arrested, Sabarinath had in his possession land worth crores of rupees, a half-built resort, gold jewellery and diamonds weighing over 100 sovereigns and 22 luxury cars.
The probe was conducted by local police and later by crime branch. The charge sheet was filed by P Raghu, the crime branch DySP. In total, 33 cases were registered, 9 charge sheets were filed.
After Sabarinath secured bail, he made an attempt to flee abroad. But the police foiled the plan by informing all airports of the fugitive. Sabarinath surrendered after investors raised a hue and cry at his house. Some even threatened his relatives.
The police have confiscated 23 luxury cars which were registered in the name of Sabarinath and the other accused. As many as 17 vehicles were auctioned off. The money obtained was used to settle the accounts of a few investors. Similarly, two houses belonging to him were also attached.
After Sabarinath was released on bail, he sang a song for an album named ‘Jumber’. He had plans to launch businesses related to cinema and music albums. But did not succeed.
Meanwhile, he was involved in a harassment case. The trial related to this case is still proceeding before the court. Sabarinath is now on parole.
