Karnataka Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against seven individuals, including representatives allegedly associated with the US-based Christian missionary organization The Timothy Initiative (TTI). The FIR, based on a complaint by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), is under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). An investigation is currently ongoing.
The accused individuals include Jonathan S. Rajan from Bengaluru, Supreme Joy from Mysuru, Mica Mark, Ajith Vargheese Mathai, Vargees Choco from Chhattisgarh, and Bablu Karmi from Assam. The case originated from Enforcement Directorate investigations conducted during raids in April this year, revealing transactions and utilization of foreign funds amounting to Rs 95 crore.
During the searches, officials discovered that funds were withdrawn in India using a debit card issued by the US-based Truist Bank in the name of Santhosh Kumar. The Enforcement Directorate reportedly seized 24 foreign debit cards from the accused Mica Mark. Preliminary investigations suggest financial transactions were conducted in Maoist-affected areas of Chhattisgarh.
In light of the gravity of the accusations, a special investigation team led by an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) has been assigned to the case. The team is expected to present its findings to central agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate. Authorities are diligently investigating to determine the source, movement, and utilization of the funds, as well as any potential connections to banned Maoist organizations.
