In a significant development in the high-profile Sabarimala gold looting case, Kerala Police has decided to widen its investigation across multiple southern states. The expansion comes following the dramatic arrest of a key suspect from Bengaluru, uncovering what appears to be an extensive interstate gold smuggling operation.
Bengaluru Connection Exposed
The breakthrough in the case occurred with the apprehension of Unnikrishnan, a Bengaluru-based individual believed to be centrally involved in the sophisticated gold smuggling racket. His arrest has provided investigators with crucial leads that point toward a well-organized network spanning beyond Kerala's borders.
Interstate Smuggling Network Uncovered
According to investigative sources, the gold smuggling operation was far more extensive than initially suspected. The network allegedly involved multiple players across southern Indian states, coordinating to move stolen gold from the sacred Sabarimala temple to various destinations.
Police authorities revealed that the modus operandi included sophisticated methods to conceal and transport the precious metal, taking advantage of interstate boundaries to evade detection.
Key Suspect Still at Large
Despite the significant progress represented by Unnikrishnan's arrest, investigators confirm that the primary suspect in the case remains elusive. The search continues for this individual, who is believed to have masterminded the entire operation and managed the distribution network.
Multi-State Investigation Strategy
The decision to expand the probe reflects the growing complexity of the case. Kerala Police is now coordinating with law enforcement agencies in neighboring states to:
- Track the movement of stolen gold across state lines
- Identify all individuals involved in the smuggling network
- Uncover the final destinations and recipients of the looted gold
- Map the complete operational structure of the smuggling ring
Temple Security Under Scrutiny
The Sabarimala gold theft has raised serious questions about security measures at one of Kerala's most prominent pilgrimage sites. The incident has prompted temple authorities to review and strengthen security protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigation continues to unfold across southern India, authorities remain confident that the expanded probe will lead to more arrests and the complete dismantling of the gold smuggling network.
