Chennithala Urges Probe Into Possible International Links in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case

Thiruvananthapuram: Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala has called for an investigation into the possible links between international antiquities-smuggling networks and the Sabarimala gold theft case. In a letter submitted to ADGP Venkatesh, who heads the Special Investigation Team (SIT), Chennithala urged that the probe be expanded to examine whether global syndicates involved in trafficking ancient artefacts are connected to the theft.

Chennithala stated that reliable information from a source with direct knowledge of these operations indicates that certain senior officials within the Devaswom Board had close ties with a group that steals temple artefacts and sells them for exorbitant sums on the international black market. This, he said, necessitates a broader investigation into the international dimensions of the case.

According to the letter, the information was provided by an individual familiar with the theft and smuggling of ancient and sacred objects. Based on the details shared, the transaction related to the stolen gold plating is estimated to be worth nearly ₹500 crore. Chennithala added that he independently verified aspects of the information and found credible elements, prompting him to forward the details to the SIT.

The source, while unwilling to reveal their identity publicly, has expressed willingness to cooperate with the investigation team and is prepared to testify in court if required, Chennithala noted.

Stating that the Sabarimala gold theft is not an ordinary case of burglary, Chennithala emphasised that it involves serious international ramifications. Those arrested so far are believed to be only secondary participants, while the principal masterminds remain outside the purview of the investigation.

He further pointed out that the jewellery merchant Govardhan—questioned by the SIT—was merely an intermediary. Chennithala highlighted that individuals with strong international connections and substantial financial backing are suspected to be behind the operation.

The Kerala High Court had earlier observed striking similarities between the methods used in the Sabarimala theft and those employed by the international smuggling network led by Subhash Kapoor, who operated from the United States. Chennithala described this judicial observation as extremely significant.

He also claimed to have received information suggesting the involvement of certain industrialists and organised rackets operating within the state itself. Despite extensive investigations, the SIT has been unable to trace the stolen items from Sabarimala, a fact that Chennithala believes further indicates international involvement.

Concluding the letter, he expressed readiness to provide additional information if the SIT decides to explore the broader conspiracy and possible links to international mafia networks.