The Special Investigation Team (SIT) made a significant development in the Sabarimala gold theft case by arresting temple tantri Kantaru Rajeevar. Rajeevar was taken into custody as he repeatedly failed to cooperate with investigators despite receiving multiple notices. The SIT had been cautious in handling the case, refraining from implicating the tantri earlier to avoid hindering the arrest process.
Information emerged that Rajeevar was being held by investigators, leading to his formal arrest later in the day. Following his arrest, he was taken to the SIT office in Thiruvananthapuram for further legal procedures. The SIT is expected to conduct a medical examination on Rajeevar before presenting him in court and may seek additional custody for detailed questioning.
Rajeevar’s arrest brings the total number of individuals detained by the SIT in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case to 13. The case has garnered widespread attention due to the religious significance of the temple and the alleged organized nature of the crime. The investigation is progressing steadily, with the possibility of more arrests or revelations as it enters a critical phase.
In a parallel development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in connection with the gold theft. The ED’s action follows the consolidation of charge sheets filed by the SIT, naming a total of 15 accused individuals. By invoking the PMLA, the ED aims to track potential money laundering activities and illicit proceeds of the crime.
The ED is set to scrutinize the financial transactions of key suspects like Unnikrishnan Potti, Govardhan, and Pankaj Bhandari in the initial stages of the investigation. The timing of the ED’s involvement has raised political interest, coinciding with the upcoming Assembly elections.
