The Kerala Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested Unnikrishnan Potti, a priest-turned-businessman, in connection with the sensational Sabarimala gold theft case, shedding new light on one of the most shocking temple-related scandals in recent memory.
According to reports, Unnikrishnan Potti was taken into custody after investigators gathered substantial evidence linking him to the disappearance of gold ornaments donated to the Sabarimala temple. The missing gold, believed to be part of offerings made by devotees, had sparked widespread outrage among pilgrims and the public, leading to a high-level probe.
Police sources revealed that Potti allegedly played a central role in the illegal diversion and sale of the temple’s gold assets. Once known for his religious service at various temples, he later turned to business ventures and reportedly used his connections within the temple administration to execute the theft.
The SIT, which has been probing the case for several months, confirmed that Potti’s arrest came after analyzing financial transactions, communications, and testimonies of other suspects. Several accomplices are also under the scanner, and more arrests are expected in the coming days.
Officials stated that Potti will be interrogated further to trace the route of the stolen gold and identify any potential links to organized crime or corrupt officials. The temple board has assured full cooperation with the investigation and pledged transparency in all future gold audits.
The arrest has triggered intense debate across Kerala, with devotees demanding stronger measures to protect temple assets and greater accountability in temple management. The case, which blends faith, corruption, and betrayal of trust, continues to unfold — with the SIT determined to recover the stolen wealth and bring all those involved to justice.