Malayalam film star Jayasurya has found himself at the centre of a fresh controversy after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) flagged a payment of about Rs one crore credited to the actor and his wife Saritha in connection with the high-profile Save Box App fraud case.
The ED’s action is part of its ongoing investigation into the online auction app Save Box, which authorities allege duped investors through a fraudulent deposit-based scheme.
The agency has reportedly identified the large sum in the bank accounts of Jayasurya and his spouse, suggesting the payment could be linked to his role as a brand ambassador for the now-scrutinised platform.
Sources familiar with the probe say the matter is being treated seriously, with the ED planning to question the actor further as part of deeper financial scrutiny. Initial reports indicated that Jayasurya might be called for questioning on January 7, as investigators seek clarity on why such a significant amount was transferred in relation to the Save Box operation.
However, Jayasurya has hit back strongly at the speculation and media narratives surrounding the case. In a public statement, the actor firmly denied any wrongdoing, describing the claims as entirely false and misleading. Jayasurya was quoted saying that “everything is a lie”, distancing himself and his family from any fraudulent conduct.
In a note he wrote, “ When spreading lies becomes the duty of the media. I am shocked to see the false propaganda about me over the last two days. These lies began with the claim that I was served a summons and must appear again on the 7th.”
“As of the moment I am writing this note, neither I nor my wife have received any such summons from the ED, other than what is being reported through media channels for the past two days. I appeared when I received a summons to appear on the 24th. We also appeared when asked to do so on the 29th. Other than that, we have not received any summons to appear again on the 7th.”
“Can anyone guess today what kind of scams those who approach us for advertisements and other purposes might weave tomorrow? I am just an ordinary citizen who conducts all financial transactions legally and responsibly pays the correct taxes to the public treasury. I can only feel pity when I see the media, which is responsible for bringing factual news to the people, degrade themselves in this manner..."A time when the media serves lies... what a pity...!!!"”
The Save Box case itself has drawn scrutiny for allegedly promising high returns through online auctions that never materialised, leading to multiple FIRs and ongoing investigations into the app’s promoters and financial flows. Allegations have included use of celebrity endorsements to enhance credibility among investors.
As of now, the ED’s findings and any further actions remain under review, with both the regulatory agency and Jayasurya’s camp watching closely how the situation develops in the days ahead.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
