Sabarimala gold theft: SIT to record Ramesh Chennithala’s statement today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Former opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala will give his statement before the special investigation team (SIT) in the Sabarimala gold theft case. He is expected to reach the crime branch office in Eanchakkal at 3 pm today to give his statement. His statement is taken based on Chennithala's revelation that the Sabarimala gold theft has links with an international smuggling gang. Chennithala had informed SIT that he is ready to give his statement on the matter. However, it is not clear whether any evidence will be produced on the disclosure.

Chennithala had sent a letter to the SIT on December 6 pointing that the connection of the antiquities smuggling gang in the gold theft should be investigated and that there was a transaction worth Rs 500 crore. He said that he was ready to reveal more information. A person with direct knowledge about this can be contacted for cooperation with the investigation. Chennithala had alleged in the letter that some industrialists in the state are also involved in the Sabarimala gold theft.

'I know a person who has direct knowledge of the gangs that steal antiquities and sell them on the black market. He is not ready to appear before the public and reveal the facts. However, he is ready to appear before the investigation team and the court and give his statement. I am saying such things after conducting an independent investigation.

Some industrialists and rackets in the state are linked to the gold theft. Some high-ranking officials of the devaswom board should be investigated for their connection with this racket. Archaeological teams should be brought under the purview of the investigation,' Chennithala had demanded in the letter.