The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold heist has recorded the statement of an NRI businessman in connection with the allegation that the missing gold plated panels at the Sabarimala shrine were traded in the international black market.
The SIT recorded a detailed statement of the Dubai-based businessman, a native of Pandalam, on Wednesday evening following a revelation by Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala.
Ramesh Chennithala had told the SIT that the businessman informed him about the alleged involvement of an international antique racket in the loss of gold from Sabarimala temple. Based on this disclosure, the SIT contacted the businessman and recorded his statement in Thiruvananthapuram.
Ramesh Chennithala on December 7 raised serious allegations with regard to the Sabarimala gold heist case and sought an inquiry into the possible links between international antique smuggling rackets with it. He said he received credible inputs that the missing gold plates at the hill shrine were traded in the international black market for around Rs 500 crore.
He wrote a letter to the SIT requesting to probe the aspect. He also assured to share more information with the SIT about the alleged international mafia that operated behind this crime.
The SIT recorded the statement of Ramesh Chennithala on Sunday.