ED Intensifies Probe into Sabarimala Temple Gold Theft, Questions Devaswom Board Official in Kochi
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has escalated its investigation into the high-profile Sabarimala gold heist by conducting a detailed interrogation of a senior official from the Travancore Devaswom Board in Kochi. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing money laundering probe linked to the theft of substantial quantities of gold from the revered Sabarimala temple in Kerala.
Details of the Interrogation and Investigation
According to sources familiar with the matter, the ED officials summoned the Devaswom Board official to their office in Kochi for questioning. The interrogation focused on gathering critical information about the financial transactions and administrative lapses that may have facilitated the gold theft. The official is believed to hold a key position within the board, which manages the affairs of the Sabarimala temple, including its security and asset management.
The gold heist, which came to light recently, involved the pilferage of gold offerings and valuables from the temple's treasury. Initial reports suggest that the stolen gold could be worth crores of rupees, raising serious concerns about the security measures in place at one of India's most visited pilgrimage sites. The ED's involvement underscores the suspicion of money laundering activities connected to the theft, potentially involving the illicit conversion of stolen gold into untraceable funds.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Scrutiny
This interrogation is part of a broader crackdown by central agencies to unravel the complex web of financial irregularities surrounding the Sabarimala gold theft. The ED is examining whether the stolen gold was used to generate black money or fund other illegal operations. The questioning of the Devaswom Board official aims to shed light on any internal collusion or negligence that might have enabled the heist, as well as to trace the flow of funds post-theft.
In addition to the ED, other law enforcement agencies, including the Kerala Police, are conducting parallel investigations into the theft. The case has garnered widespread attention due to the religious significance of Sabarimala and the sheer scale of the alleged crime. Authorities are under pressure to ensure a thorough probe and bring the perpetrators to justice, while also implementing stricter security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Devaswom Board, responsible for the administration of numerous temples in Kerala, has faced criticism in the past for mismanagement and security breaches. This latest incident has reignited calls for greater transparency and accountability in the board's operations, particularly concerning the safeguarding of temple assets. As the investigation progresses, more officials and individuals connected to the case may be summoned for questioning, potentially revealing deeper layers of financial misconduct.
