ED Raids 21 Locations in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case Across Kerala and Karnataka

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday launched a large-scale crackdown in connection with the high-profile Sabarimala gold theft case, conducting coordinated searches at 21 locations across Kerala, Karnataka, and Chennai. The raids mark a significant escalation in the financial probe into the alleged theft of gold-linked copper plates from the Sabarimala temple system.

According to officials, the searches are focused on uncovering the money trail connected to the theft, which dates back to 2019. The ED is examining bank accounts, property holdings, and financial transactions of the accused and their associates to determine whether proceeds from the theft were laundered or diverted through benami assets.

Key locations under scanner
Among the prominent locations searched is the office of the Travancore Devaswom Board in Thiruvananthapuram, which manages the Sabarimala shrine. The residence of the prime accused, Unnikrishnan, was also raided as part of the operation. Officials said the searches are aimed at establishing whether institutional funds or assets were misused or siphoned off.

The ED action follows the arrest of two former presidents of the Travancore Devaswom Board in the case. Investigators believe the theft involved gold-coated copper plates that were part of temple assets, raising serious concerns over the safeguarding of valuables linked to one of India’s most prominent pilgrimage centres.

Focus on financial irregularities
The central agency is probing suspected financial irregularities, including unexplained assets and large transactions allegedly linked to the accused. Officials indicated that the ED is coordinating closely with the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has been handling the criminal and forensic aspects of the case.

While the SIT continues its scientific and technical analysis related to the theft, the ED’s role is centred on determining whether the offence qualifies as a case of money laundering under applicable laws. Sources said investigators are analysing transaction patterns over several years to identify possible shell entities and intermediaries.

Pressure mounts on temple administration
The widening scope of the investigation has increased pressure on the Travancore Devaswom Board, which oversees the administration of several major temples in Kerala. The raids have also sparked political and public debate over governance, transparency, and accountability in temple management.

Officials indicated that more individuals could be questioned or arrested depending on the findings of the financial probe. The ED has not ruled out further searches if fresh leads emerge from documents and digital evidence seized during the raids.

The Sabarimala gold theft case has remained under scrutiny for years due to its sensitivity and the religious importance of the shrine. With the ED now intensifying its investigation, the case appears to be entering a decisive phase as authorities attempt to trace the full extent of the alleged financial network behind the theft.