Daijiworld Media Network - Kerala

Kerala, Oct 17: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Kerala High Court to investigate the Sabarimala gold theft has made its first arrest. Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused, was taken into custody early Friday after hours of questioning by the SIT team led by SP Bijoy.

Potti underwent a medical examination at Thiruvananthapuram General Hospital and will be presented before the Ranni Court by noon tomorrow. He will remain in SIT custody until his court appearance.

The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the theft of 475 grams of gold (around 56 sovereigns) from the dwarapalaka sculptures and kattilappadi of the Sreekovil at Sabarimala. Investigations revealed that only three grams of gold were actually used for plating, while Potti allegedly misappropriated the rest. He reportedly also collected money from two individuals in Bengaluru for the same work.

During interrogation, Potti admitted that the robbery was pre-planned and alleged that Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) officials were aware of the scheme. He claimed that the stolen gold was shared among TDB members. Another key figure, identified as middleman Kalpesh, is believed to be a main link in the conspiracy. The SIT is also investigating the role of Smart Creations, the enterprise involved in plating work at the temple, noting that some crucial records are missing.

The SIT will submit a progress report in a sealed cover to the High Court next week. Meanwhile, Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar has demanded the resignation of State Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan over the incident.