Kochi, Jan 20 (UNI) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched extensive search operations at the residences and offices of all accused in the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case,marking a major escalation in the investigation into the alleged misappropriation of temple assets.
The searches were conducted simultaneously at 21 locations spread across Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka as part of an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Officials confirmed that the raids targeted the personal premises and business establishments of key accused, including former Devaswom Board office-bearers and individuals linked to the handling and movement of temple gold.
According to sources, the ED action aims to trace the financial trail, recover documents and identify assets allegedly generated through the illegal diversion and laundering of gold removed from sacred structures and ornaments associated with the Sabarimala temple.
The agency is examining whether the proceeds of the crime were routed through benami transactions, shell entities or undisclosed investments. Searches were carried out in multiple cities, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Chennai, Bellari and other locations, with officials seizing digital records, financial documents and material evidence relevant to the money-laundering angle of the case. Senior ED officers supervised the coordinated operations, which continued for several hours.
The ED probe is running parallel to the investigation being conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted following directions from the Kerala High Court. The SIT is probing the criminal conspiracy behind the disappearance of gold, while the ED is focusing on the generation and concealment of illegal proceeds arising from the alleged theft.
Meanwhile, judicial proceedings related to the case have gathered momentum. The Kerala High Court has observed that the investigation must comprehensively examine all aspects of the alleged crime, including the handling of temple artefacts and financial transactions linked to them. The court has also sought detailed reports on the progress of the probe.
Former Devaswom Board president N. Vasu continues to remain in judicial custody, while bail pleas filed by other accused are pending before the courts. At the same time, sections of the temple priesthood and religious bodies have approached the High Court seeking a CBI inquiry, alleging lapses and lack of impartiality in the ongoing investigation.
Officials indicated that further action, including additional summons and asset attachment proceedings, could follow based on the evidence gathered during the searches. The Sabarimala gold theft case is considered one of the most sensitive and high-value temple asset investigations in the state, with significant legal, administrative and religious implications. Further developments are awaited as the investigation progresses.
UNI DS PPP AAB