The search for answers in the Sabarimala Temple gold theft controversy has led to the arrest of Unnikrishnan Potty, reportedly the prime accused. Officials confirmed that Potty, a businessman operating out of Bengaluru, was apprehended by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Friday. His arrest followed a day of intensive questioning after being taken into custody from his home in Pulimath on Thursday. The interrogation took place at the Crime Branch office in Thiruvananthapuram. After the formal arrest, Potty underwent a medical examination before being transferred to Pathanamthitta. He is expected to be presented before the Ranni Court, where the SIT plans to request his custody for further investigation. The SIT was formed under the directives of the Kerala High Court to probe the alleged theft of gold, specifically from the Dwarapalaka idols and the Sreekovil door frames. Investigations are also scrutinizing the procedures followed by Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) officials and members in relation to the gold-clad copper plates entrusted to Potty in 2019 for electroplating. The TDB Vigilance Wing had previously recorded Potty’s statement during a preliminary probe. The High Court has mandated that the investigation conclude within six weeks.
