Indian financial investigators conducted a search at a Coimbatore residence on Thursday as part of an inquiry into alleged money laundering connected to the 2019 Sri Lanka Easter Sunday bombings that killed over 250 people.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out an extensive search at a residence in Coimbatore's Anbu Nagar area on Thursday as part of its ongoing investigation into financial transactions allegedly linked to the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka. The operation targeted the home of Azharuddin, a suspect in the case, with ED officials assisted by central security personnel and local police conducting the search over several hours beginning in the morning.
Azharuddin remains in custody at Viyyur Central Prison in Kerala while legal proceedings continue. The coordinated suicide bombings on April 21, 2019, resulted in more than 250 deaths and hundreds of injuries across Sri Lanka. Investigators examined various documents, electronic devices, and financial records at the residence to trace suspected money flows and determine whether any proceeds connected to the broader conspiracy could be identified.
The search focused on uncovering financial aspects of the case through examination of bank records and other materials. Security was heightened in the locality during the operation, with police controlling public access to the area. At the time of reporting, no seizures or formal findings had been announced, with the agency expected to release a statement following completion of the investigation.
The search marks the latest focus on Ukkadam, an area with a history of terror-related investigations. The locality also experienced a lone-wolf attack in October 2022 when a car exploded near a temple, later determined to be a suicide blast carried out by extremist Jamesha Mubeen. The ED action has drawn considerable local attention as investigators continue examining potential financial connections to the Easter bombing case.
