Copter scam: CBI set to record statements again

The CBI, which is investigating the multi-crore AgustaWestland helicopter deal case, will soon record statements of some suspects again.

Sources said, “The agency sleuths are scrutinising a crucial evidence pertaining to the case. A March 2008 letter written to a then senior AgustaWestland official by Christian Michel James, a suspect in the case, in which the latter seeks payments for his firms in view of the likely conclusion of a ‘major’ deal in India.” In view of new evidence surfacing in the case, the CBI is preparing to question some suspects again, they added.

The CBI on March 13, 2013 had booked former Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief S.P. Tyagi and 13 others under charges of bribery, cheating and corruption in the VVIP copter deal. The former Air Chief, his cousins Sanjeev, alias Julie, Rajeev, alias Docsa, and Sandeep, European middlemen Gerosa, Michel and Haschke were among 13 individuals named in the FIR as accused.

Six companies, including Italy-based Finmeccanica, AgustaWestland, Mohali-based IDS Infotech, Chandigarh-based Aeromatrix, IDS Tunisia and IDS Mauritius had also been named in the FIR.

The Interpol recently issued a red corner notice (RCN) against Michel in the case. The RCN against Michel has been issued on the request of the CBI. After issuing the RCN, the Interpol has also asked immigration authorities of all member countries to issue lookout circulars against Michel seeking his detention once his presence gets confirmed.

The Enforcement Directorate, which is also probing the case, has already attached properties worth Rs 1.12 crore allegedly belonging to Michel in Delhi. The property in the name of a media firm allegedly belonged to Michel, including a flat in posh Safdarjung Enclave.