What Breakthrough Has the SIT Achieved in the Sabarimala Gold Heist?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal turn in the Sabarimala gold theft investigation, the SIT recovers stolen gold from a Karnataka jewellery store. This find could be the key to solving a case that has garnered national attention, involving significant players and potential internal collusion. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this unfolding story.
Key Takeaways
- Major recovery of stolen gold from Karnataka.
- Key suspect Unnikrishnan Potti remains in custody.
- Investigation spans multiple states to trace stolen property.
- Evidence gathering continues with further arrests expected.
- Potential internal collusion within temple renovation efforts.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 25 (NationPress) In a significant development concerning the Sabarimala gold theft case, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has successfully recovered a notable amount of the stolen gold from a jewellery shop located in Bellari, Karnataka.
The gold, reportedly handed over by prime suspect Unnikrishnan Potti to his accomplice Govardhan, was confiscated during a raid orchestrated by Superintendent of Police Sasidharan.
More than 400 grams of gold were retrieved from Govardhan’s jewellery establishment.
Simultaneously, investigators also uncovered several gold coins and approximately Rs 2 lakh in cash from Potti’s home in Pulimath, Thiruvananthapuram.
The SIT continues to gather evidence as Unnikrishnan Potti remains in custody until October 30.
The investigation has expanded beyond Kerala, with the team visiting various locations in Bengaluru, Bellari, Hyderabad, and Chennai to trace the movement of the stolen gold and validate Potti’s claims.
On Saturday morning, a three-member SIT team, accompanied by Potti, was in Bengaluru as part of the ongoing probe.
Searches are being conducted at his home in the city, the Bellari site where the gold was allegedly sold, a Hyderabad-based firm that repaired the temple’s sanctum door panels, and the Chennai-based company Smart Creations, which provided gold plating materials for the Sabarimala temple.
The SIT is currently investigating whether the recovered gold corresponds with the amount that was misappropriated from temple renovations.
Govardhan, who previously supplied gold for plating the Sabarimala temple’s sanctum panels, is also under investigation.
The SIT plans to record statements from other Devaswom Board employees involved in temple renovation efforts to ascertain the extent of internal collusion.
With vital evidence coming to light, investigators believe this recent recovery could serve as the crucial link in unraveling the notorious Sabarimala gold heist.
The SIT has already arrested Potti, along with former top Sabarimala temple official Murari Babu, and they are progressing towards making additional arrests as outlined in their two FIRs, which list 10 suspects.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the dedication of the Special Investigation Team in uncovering the truth behind the Sabarimala gold heist. The ongoing investigations reflect a commitment to justice, transparency, and accountability. The network of suspects and the involvement of various regions underscore the complexity of this case, warranting thorough scrutiny and collaboration across jurisdictions.
NationPress
25/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest update on the Sabarimala gold theft case?
The SIT has recovered stolen gold from a jewellery store in Bellari, Karnataka, and is continuing its investigations across multiple states.
Who are the key suspects in the Sabarimala gold heist?
Key suspects include Unnikrishnan Potti and his associate Govardhan, along with former temple officials implicated in the case.
What actions have been taken by the SIT so far?
The SIT has conducted multiple raids, recovered stolen gold and cash, and arrested several individuals connected to the heist.
How has the investigation expanded geographically?
The investigation has extended beyond Kerala to locations in Bengaluru, Bellari, Hyderabad, and Chennai to trace the flow of the stolen gold.
What evidence has been gathered in this case?
The SIT has collected gold, cash, and statements from various individuals involved in temple renovations and the theft.
