Auto driver, popcorn seller to 'Diamond Mani'; Major turning point in Sabarimala golf theft investigation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Based on the statement of an expatriate businessman, the SIT questioned Dindigul native D-Mani (Diamond Mani) for two hours over suspicion of smuggling the gold ornaments of Sabarimala temple abroad. A notice was issued to Mani to appear for questioning in Thiruvananthapuram next week.

Mani stated that he had no connection with the gold loot, but admitted doing business in Kerala. He also denied having any previous connection with the accused Unnikrishnan Potty.

MS Mani opined that the SIT mistook him for another person and that he was a real estate businessman. SIT then showed the photo of Mani to the expatriate before resuming the questioning session. His real name is Subramaniam.

Inspections were conducted at the establishments in Dindigul and at the house of his assistant Srikrishna, in Virudhunagar. A raid was also conducted at the shop selling idols and old utensils owned by Srikrishna. More information will be collected from the expatriate businessman who revealed that Mani was involved in the smuggling of Panchaloha idols.

The SIT led by the DySP reached Mani's establishment in Dindigul at around 10.30 am yesterday. There was a warrant from the Thiruvananthapuram court for the inspection.

They reached D-Mani by following the phone number given by the expatriate businessman. Mani stated that he was using the phone number taken in the name of his friend, real estate agent Balamurugan. Mani argues that the SIT arrived because Balamurugan's phone number was saved in the phone of one of the accused. The police showed him a picture of Potty, but Mani remained adamant, saying he had no connection with him.

# Investigation is underway to find out whether Mani had any dealings with Unnikrishnan Potty in Thiruvananthapuram.

# No evidence has been found linking Mani. There are indications that 4 Panchaloha idols were sold to an international antiquities smuggling gang in 2019-20 and that Mani took the money.

# Mani has been accused of iridium fraud and financial fraud. The gang also has a business selling ancient handicrafts and metal products.

Mani, who was an auto driver, grew into D-Mani in the blink of an eye. In a span of six years, Mani jumped across professions. While selling popcorn in a movie theatre, his name was Popcorn Mani. He also ran canteens. He became Finance Mani after starting a finance company. Later, he entered the real estate sector. It is said that he was close to the late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa. The investigation team says that his real name may be 'Dindigal Balamurugan'. There are indications that the real estate transactions are a cover for jewellery, idol and antique transactions.