A police team conducted a search at the Kochi headquarters of Malayalam news channel Reporter TV early Wednesday morning. The channel claims that this action has significantly disrupted its news operations.
Police Seize Journalists’ Phones Amidst Media Freedom Concerns
Police officers reportedly seized mobile phones belonging to journalists and employees at a news channel’s office, according to the channel’s claims. The officers were present for over half an hour without providing an explanation for the search or details regarding the seizure. Phones used by journalists who were on duty were taken into custody.
Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan condemned the police actions, describing the incident as an assault on media freedom. He stated that police personnel “burst into” the news desk during the early hours and maintained a tense environment for approximately one-and-a-half hours. Vijayan also alleged that police filmed the journalists during this time.
He drew parallels between this incident and similar actions against media organizations in other states and Delhi, urging the Chief Minister and Home Minister to address what he termed an attack on the press.
Searches Conducted at Augustine Brothers’ Properties
The Special Investigation Team has launched searches at five locations related to the Augustine brothers, who own Reporter Broadcasting Company. The targeted sites include their residences in Kochi, their office, and a family home in Wayanad. This operation is part of an ongoing investigation, though specific details regarding the nature of the inquiry have not been disclosed.
The action is understood to be linked to the investigation into the controversy surrounding the failed Messi-Argentina football event in Keralam during the previous Left rule.
