Sabarimala gold theft; Strict action if Devaswom officials fail to provide documents, says SIT

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has tightened action against Devaswom officials in the Sabarimala gold theft case. The SIT has warned that legal action will be taken against officials who fail to provide the documents. The investigating officials said that no more time can be given.

More documents related to Vijay Mallya's gold plating in 1999 should be made available immediately. The investigation, including the documents related to the Sabarimala renovation, is essential. The SIT also clarified that no more time can be given to the officials to find the documents.

Devaswom Board official Murari Babu, remanded in the case, will be produced before the Ranni court today. The SIT will then file a custody application. The main accused in the case, Unnikrishnan Potty, and Murari Babu will be made to sit together and grilled.

The investigation team has informed that the gold smuggled from Sabarimala will be produced in the high court soon. The officials said the aim is to collect maximum evidence before the custody of arrested Unnikrishnan Potty ends. Potty's custody period ends on October 30. The stolen gold was recovered from Roddam Jewelry in Bellary owned by Unnikrishnan Potty's friend and businessman Govardhan. Gold bars weighing more than 500 grams were taken into custody. Govardhan told media that he is not involved in the gold theft in Sabarimala and had given a statement to the investigation team.