The Karnataka government has handed over to a Special Investigation Team the case relating to alleged "fraud" by an investment firm here affecting thousands of investors, the chief minister's office said Tuesday.
Hundreds of investors had thronged the 'I Monetary Advisory jewels' store here Monday worried about their money, after an audio clip surfaced with a person alleged to be its founder and managing director Mohammed Mansoor Khan heard saying he is going to commit suicide as he was fed up with corruption.
According to reports, police have received thousands of complaints against IMA jewels and Khan, whose whereabouts are still not known, from investors who are mainly vendors, small businessmen and from middle and lower middle class.
"Considering the seriousness of the #IMAJewels fraud, the inquiry has been handed over to a special investigation team and instructions on this have been given to theDGP," the Chief Minister of Karnataka's office tweeted.
Kumaraswamy earlier held discussions with State Home minister M B Patil and issued instructions to dispose the case at the earliest, and ensure action against the guilty.
Earlier in the day, a delegation of Muslim leaders of the Congress, including minorities welfare minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, met the chief minister and Home minister and urged them to hand over the case to the SIT.
"Met and gave submission to Honorable Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri @hd_kumaraswamy regarding taking stern action against IMA Jewels on behalf of victims...," Khan tweeted.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Patil, Khan said, "There are many poor people who had invested for marriage, education, to construct house among other things...we have asked for SIT investigation."
Seeking confiscation of the owner's properties and wealth, he said, "action should be taken against whoever is involved or behind this and however powerful they are...if SIT can't, let them give it to CBI then."
Responding, BJP said, "Good to know you have known this fraud for a long time. Should help you catch him soon. Your job is to catch the fraudster & not cry victim on twitter. Get your priorities right."