The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday launched a sweeping crackdown in the high-profile Sabarimala gold misappropriation case, carrying out coordinated raids at 21 locations across Kerala and Tamil Nadu as part of a money-laundering investigation.
The searches were conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following FIRs registered by the Kerala Police Crime Branch. According to officials, the probe centres on the alleged misappropriation and illegal removal of gold-linked temple assets, raising serious concerns over the handling of valuables associated with the famed Sabarimala shrine.
ED sources said the investigation has uncovered indications of a well-organised conspiracy, involving manipulation of records and unauthorised handling of temple assets. The raids targeted premises linked to key accused persons, including former officials, intermediaries and others suspected of playing a role in the alleged diversion of gold and related proceeds.
Investigators are focusing on tracing the financial trail, identifying beneficiaries, and seizing documents, digital evidence and other materials that could help unravel the full extent of the alleged scam. The operation is also aimed at determining whether the proceeds were laundered through multiple channels across states.
The case, which has already triggered widespread public and political attention in Kerala, is being probed alongside parallel investigations by state agencies under judicial supervision. The latest ED action signals an intensification of the crackdown on one of the most sensitive and closely watched temple-related financial cases in recent years.
