Who is the prime suspect in the Sabarimala gold theft?
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Synopsis
The Sabarimala gold theft investigation takes a significant turn as Unnikrishnan Potti, the primary suspect, is arrested. This pivotal moment raises questions about potential further arrests and the involvement of senior officials. The case, involving gold misappropriation, corruption, and insider dealings, continues to unfold, highlighting the complexity of the situation.
Key Takeaways
- Unnikrishnan Potti arrested as the prime suspect.
- Investigation reveals potential corruption within the Travancore Devaswom Board.
- Two FIRs filed, implicating 10 individuals.
- Estimated theft involves 475 grams of gold.
- Ongoing investigation into broader conspiracy.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 17 (NationPress) The inquiry into the Sabarimala gold theft case has progressed significantly with the apprehension of Unnikrishnan Potti, the main suspect. Potti was taken into custody early Thursday after enduring over 10 hours of interrogation at the Crime Branch office in the state capital.
This arrest signifies the first major development in the case concerning the theft of gold from the dwarapalaka (guardian deity) sculptures and the kattilappadi (threshold) of the Sreekovil at Sabarimala.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed two distinct cases against Potti, who is accused of smuggling gold from the temple while posing as a sponsor.
In the two FIRs, the SIT has implicated 10 individuals, with Potti named as the primary suspect in both cases.
The theft is estimated to involve approximately 475 grams of gold, equating to around 56 sovereigns. Investigators discovered that only three grams of gold were genuinely utilized for plating, while Potti misappropriated the remainder.
Moreover, he allegedly solicited funds from two individuals in Bengaluru for this endeavor.
Investigators are now extending their inquiries to include senior officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board.
On February 16, 2019, the then Sabarimala Executive Officer suggested that Potti be entrusted with the gold-plated copper sheets of the sanctum structure for re-plating. However, the wording was modified, omitting the mention of gold when the proposal reached the Commissioner.
The Commissioner, Executive Officer, Administrative Officer, and Assistant Engineer have all been identified for significant oversights.
The SIT, under the leadership of SP Sashidharan, documented the arrest around 2:30 a.m. in Thiruvananthapuram and subsequently took Potti for a medical examination.
He is set to appear before the Ranni court in Pathanamthitta later today.
Separate FIRs have been lodged for the two theft incidents, with the Devaswom Board itself listed as the eighth accused in one of them.
Corruption allegations under the Prevention of Corruption Act are anticipated.
Moreover, investigators have revealed connections between Potti and Smart Creations, a private firm purportedly involved in gold plating.
The Vigilance report indicates that the gold was obtained from Bengaluru and Mumbai, rather than from the offerings of devotees.
Potti, who lacks a stable income, is suspected of aiming to acquire 2 kg of gold through nine sponsorship transactions.
The SIT is currently investigating the broader conspiracy and the involvement of insiders within the temple administration.
Point of View
I view the latest developments in the Sabarimala gold theft investigation with a critical eye. The arrest of Unnikrishnan Potti marks a crucial step, but it also raises concerns about systemic issues within the temple administration. We must ensure that justice is served and that transparency prevails in this sensitive matter.
NationPress
17/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sabarimala gold theft case about?
The Sabarimala gold theft case involves the alleged theft of gold from the temple's guardian deity sculptures and a threshold, estimated to be around 475 grams.
Who was arrested in connection with the case?
Unnikrishnan Potti, the main suspect, was arrested after extensive questioning by the Crime Branch.
What are the implications of this arrest?
The arrest may lead to further investigations into the involvement of other officials and deeper systemic issues within the temple administration.
What are the charges against Potti?
Potti is charged with misappropriation of gold and corruption under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
How many individuals are implicated in this case?
The SIT has filed FIRs against 10 individuals, with Potti named as the prime accused in both cases.
