The Income Tax (I-T) department is conducting surprise raids at Tamil actor Arya’s residence and business entities linked to him, including 'Sea Shell' restaurant branches in Chennai’s Anna Nagar, Velachery, Kottivakam, and Kilpauk. The raids stem from suspicions of tax irregularities and unreported wealth.

Though Arya reportedly sold the restaurant chain to Kerala-based businessman Kunhi Moosa, the I-T department is investigating related transactions. Arya has denied ownership of the restaurants under inspection. An official IT statement is awaited.