Sabarimala gold theft case: Unnikrishnan Potty released from jail

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Unnikrishnan Potty, the first accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case, was released from jail after being granted bail. He was released from prison on Thursday evening. Earlier in the day, the court granted him bail in the temple door frame case. He received statutory bail as the charge sheet was not filed within 90 days of his arrest.

Unnikrishnan Potty had earlier been granted statutory bail in the Dwarapalaka case as well. The court imposed strict conditions while granting bail, including a ban on entering Pathanamthitta district, not influencing witnesses, and appearing before investigating officers whenever required.

Unnikrishnan Potty is the fourth accused to be granted bail in the Sabarimala gold theft case. Former Administrative Officer Murari Babu and former Executive Officer Sudheesh Kumar were granted statutory bail. Meanwhile, the court granted bail to former Administrative Officer S. Sreekumar, who was in remand, citing a lack of evidence.

Meanwhile, reports had emerged earlier in the day that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) would issue a summons to question Potty as soon as he was released on bail. With the bail granted, the ED is expected to speed up its proceedings. He is likely to be summoned to the ED office in Kochi for questioning.