In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through Kerala, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the sensational gold theft at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple has made a high-profile arrest. The SIT has taken into custody the temple's Tantri (high priest), Kandararu Rajeevaru, for his alleged links to the main accused in the case. This arrest marks a significant and unexpected turn in the investigation into the pilferage of sacred gold ornaments from one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites.
The Arrest and Alleged Connections
The arrest was carried out on Thursday, January 9, 2026, following intense questioning by the SIT. According to official sources, the investigation revealed suspicious communication and connections between Tantri Rajeevaru and the primary accused, whose identity is being closely guarded by the police. The SIT reportedly gathered substantial evidence, including call records and witness statements, that pointed towards the tantri's alleged involvement or prior knowledge related to the theft.
Authorities have emphasized that the arrest was not made lightly, given the revered position held by the tantri in the temple's hierarchy. The move underscores the SIT's commitment to following the evidence trail wherever it leads, regardless of the stature of the individuals involved. Rajeevaru was reportedly questioned for several hours over multiple sessions before the decision to arrest him was finalized.
Details of the Sabarimala Temple Theft
The case revolves around the theft of valuable gold ornaments and offerings from the sanctum sanctorum of the Sabarimala temple. The pilferage, which was discovered during a routine audit, involved items of immense religious significance and monetary value. The breach of security at such a high-security and spiritually sensitive location raised immediate alarm bells, leading to the formation of the dedicated SIT by the Kerala government.
The investigation has been multifaceted, looking into lapses in the temple's security apparatus, the possible involvement of insiders, and the network used to dispose of the stolen gold. The arrest of the tantri strongly suggests the probe is focusing on the possibility of an inside job, leveraging intimate knowledge of the temple's routines and security measures.
Reactions and Next Steps for the SIT
The arrest has triggered a mix of reactions, ranging from shock and disbelief among devotees to calls for a thorough and impartial investigation. Temple authorities and the Travancore Devaswom Board, which administers Sabarimala, are yet to issue a detailed official statement but are said to be cooperating fully with the investigating team.
For the SIT, the work is far from over. The team is now expected to delve deeper into the nature of the relationship between the arrested tantri and the main accused. Key lines of inquiry include:
- Establishing the motive behind the theft.
- Tracking the pathway of the stolen gold ornaments.
- Identifying all other individuals who may have facilitated the crime.
- Reviewing and overhauling the security protocols at the temple to prevent future incidents.
This case has not only become a major criminal investigation but also a test of institutional integrity for one of Kerala's most prominent religious institutions. The coming days are likely to reveal more crucial details as the SIT continues to unravel the conspiracy behind the Sabarimala gold theft row.
