Kochi, November 2025 — Dr. Fazal Gafoor, President of the Muslim Educational Society (MES), was detained by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at Cochin International Airport on Thursday as he was preparing to board a flight to Australia along with his family. The action was based on ongoing investigations into alleged financial irregularities linked to institutions under MES.

Detention at the Airport

According to multiple Kerala media outlets, ED officials intercepted Dr. Gafoor at the departure terminal after receiving information about his travel plans. The agency had reportedly issued several summons directing him to appear for questioning, but he had allegedly failed to comply, prompting the enforcement action at the airport.

Financial Irregularity Allegations

The detention is connected to complaints regarding suspicious financial transactions and alleged fund mismanagement involving projects run by MES.
One key complaint, filed by Dr. Abdul Nazar of Tirur, accuses Dr. Gafoor of cheating investors in connection with an MES-linked project. A police FIR was earlier registered based on this complaint, and the matter was subsequently referred to the ED due to suspected money-laundering elements.

Questioning and Release

After detaining him at the airport, ED officers took Dr. Gafoor to their Kochi office for detailed interrogation. Some media reports indicate that he was questioned for several hours and later released, though the investigation against him remains open.

Background

Dr. Gafoor, a prominent figure in Kerala’s education sector and a long-time leader of the MES network of institutions, has recently faced scrutiny over financial practices in various MES projects. The ED is expected to continue examining documents, bank transactions and investment records in connection with the allegations.

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