ED raids scross Bengaluru, Ballari and Thiruvananthapuram in Sabarimala gold theft probe

Search operations were carried out at temples and residential premises as investigators intensified the probe into the disappearance of over 4 kg of gold linked to Sabarimala-related works.

Bengaluru witnessed enforcement action as central investigating officials conducted searches in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. Simultaneous raids were carried out at multiple locations in Bengaluru, Ballari, and Thiruvananthapuram as part of the ongoing investigation.

In Bengaluru, search operations were conducted at an Ayyappa temple located in Srirampura and at the residence of a temple trustee. Officials were seen carrying out detailed inspections and document verification at the premises as part of the probe into the alleged misuse and diversion of temple-related gold.

The case dates back to 2019, when the temple administration had handed over 42.8 kg of gold-coated copper plates to a Chennai-based artisan for electroplating work. These plates were meant to be reinstalled on temple structures after completion of the process. However, when the material was returned, its weight had dropped to 38.258 kg, triggering suspicion over the missing quantity.

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Investigators later found that more than 4 kg of gold was unaccounted for, leading to the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). During the probe, it emerged that 475 grams of gold from the missing quantity had allegedly been sold to a jeweller in Ballari. This transaction is now a key focus of the investigation.

Further findings revealed that the artisan had allegedly transported the gold-coated copper plates without permission to several temples and private locations across southern states. The material was originally entrusted for electroplating work on guardian deity idols, but investigators believe it was misused beyond the approved scope.

The probe has also indicated alleged assistance from a former administrative official of the temple board in facilitating the movement and sale of the gold. Until 2019, the artisan had reportedly worked as a coordinator for VIP devotees, which is believed to have helped build access to influential circles.

Officials are continuing searches and financial scrutiny to trace the remaining gold and establish accountability. More action is expected as the investigation progresses.