The investigation into the Sabarimala gold heist has uncovered a sophisticated and well-planned crime. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) discovered that gold was systematically stolen from various sacred structures within the hill shrine, indicating a coordinated and prolonged effort. The theft extended beyond one location in the temple, with gold removed from multiple seven-layered structures associated with the sanctum.
The stolen gold included plating from the Shiva idol and ‘vyali’ figures above the kattila layers, emphasizing the meticulous nature of the operation. The gold was then transported out of Kerala to Chennai for processing at Smart Creations. The SIT report highlighted the need for technical expertise and logistical coordination, suggesting the involvement of multiple individuals in a well-organized network.
Investigators have recovered only a portion of the stolen gold so far, with expectations of further discoveries. Pankaj Bhandari, CEO of Smart Creations and a key suspect, surrendered 109.243 grams of gold believed to be his payment. The ongoing probe aims to track down the remaining stolen gold and identify all individuals involved in the theft.
The investigation has also exposed institutional failures that may have enabled the theft to occur over time. With new leads emerging from interrogations and more questioning planned, the SIT is preparing to present additional findings to the High Court soon. The Sabarimala gold heist is increasingly seen as a significant breach of trust, with 10 arrests made, including high-ranking CPI(M) leaders from the Travancore Devasom Board.
