‘Tantri’s arrest based on accurate evidence and statements’; more arrests likely, says DGP

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: DGP Ravada Chandrasekhar said Sabarimala Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru was arrested based on accurate evidence and statements. He responded that the special investigation team is conducting a transparent investigation under the supervision of the high court. The DGP told the media that no pressure was exerted on the investigation team and the investigation is being conducted with complete independence. He added that more arrests will be there as more evidence is received.

The special investigation team registered the arrest of Kandararu Rajeevaru at around 2:30 pm today. The Tantri was summoned to the guest house in Attingal this morning and questioned by the investigation team. He was then taken to the crime branch office in Enchakkal. After completing the procedures for presenting him in court, the Tantri will undergo a medical examination and then be taken to Kollam, said the special investigation team. Devaswom Board President K Jayakumar also responded to the media on the arrest of Tantri. He said that Ayyappan is saddened by what has been lost from Sabarimala.

Meantime, Minister V N Vasavan said the court itself has made it clear that the investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft is in the right direction. He was responding to the arrest of Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru. The court itself has made it clear that the investigation is in the right direction. The minister responded that he has nothing special to say about the arrest of the Tantri and if he has any different opinion at any stage, will say it then.