Sabarimala Gold Theft Investigation Intensifies with Scientific and Financial Probes
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) delving into the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case has taken a significant step forward by initiating the recording of statements from scientists affiliated with the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). This move is part of a meticulous effort to thoroughly analyse the scientific examination conducted on the artefacts stolen from the sacred Lord Ayyappa temple.
Scientific Findings Require Further Decoding
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the scientists have informed the SIT that several aspects of the complex scientific findings remain undecoded. They have reportedly indicated that at least one more week will be necessary to achieve complete clarity. Furthermore, the results need to be compared with the scientific examination of the earlier door panel, which is crucial for piecing together the evidence in this intricate case.
Financial Irregularities Under Scrutiny
In a parallel development, the SIT has intensified its probe into the financial transactions of Tanthri Kandararu Rajeevaru. Suspicions of irregularities arose after it emerged that he did not lodge any formal complaint despite losing a substantial sum of Rs 2.5 crore deposited at a private bank in Thiruvalla, which subsequently went bankrupt. This critical information came to light during the ongoing investigation into the tanthri's financial sources.
During questioning, Rajeevaru is said to have mentioned only the loss of some money during floods, omitting details about the amount deposited in the bankrupt bank. This omission has prompted the SIT to initiate a separate and focused probe into the Rs 2.5-crore transaction, aiming to uncover any potential misconduct or hidden motives.
Legal Proceedings and Custody Details
The SIT had earlier taken Rajeevaru into custody and questioned him regarding his dealings with prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti and his alleged links with other accused individuals in the case. His bail plea is scheduled to be considered by the vigilance court on Wednesday, adding another layer to the legal complexities surrounding this investigation.
ED's Role in Money Laundering Probe
In a related development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is investigating alleged money laundering activities connected to the gold heist, is set to record the statement of Murari Babu. He is a former Travancore Devaswom Board administrator and the second accused in the case. A notice is expected to be issued this week, directing him to appear before the ED's Kochi office for questioning.
Murari Babu, who was earlier remanded in the Sabarimala gold theft case, was recently released on bail in the dwarapalaka and kattalipali cases. The Kollam vigilance court granted statutory bail after 90 days of arrest, subject to strict conditions. Meanwhile, Potti, the first accused, was granted statutory bail in the dwarapalaka case but continues to remain in judicial custody in the kattalipali case, as the mandatory 90-day period has not yet been completed.
This multi-faceted investigation continues to unfold, with authorities leveraging both scientific expertise and financial scrutiny to unravel the truth behind the Sabarimala gold theft, ensuring justice is served in this sensitive matter.
