Sabarimala gold theft; SIT to probe role of top brass based on Chennithala’s statement 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The special investigation team (SIT) is all set to issue a notice to the businessman based on senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala’s statement in the Sabarimala gold theft case. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is in the process of investigating the role of top brass in the case.

The new move comes as the investigation by the SIT appointed by the high court in the case enters its final stage. Chennithala had earlier alleged that the gold sheets smuggled from Sabarimala were sold as antiquities and were worth Rs 500 crore. He alleged that this information was conveyed to him by a businessman who was aware of this. He gave his statement in connection with it. The SIT has subsequently decided to issue a notice to the businessman mentioned in Chennithala's statement. A detailed statement will also be recorded from him.

Chennithala alleged that an international antiques smugglers are behind the Sabarimala gold theft. His statement was recorded at the crime branch headquarters at Eanchakkal in Thiruvananthapuram. Chennithala had earlier informed that he would give his statement, but it was postponed to yesterday due to the inconvenience of the investigation team.