Central agencies probe suspected smuggling of Sabarimala valuables via diplomatic parcels
The investigation expands beyond gold imports to examine what was illegally exported through diplomatic channels, previously unestablished.
The investigation expands beyond gold imports to examine what was illegally exported through diplomatic channels, previously unestablished.
The investigation expands beyond gold imports to examine what was illegally exported through diplomatic channels, previously unestablished.
Kochi: Central agencies have launched a fresh probe into the possibility that gold and ritual articles stolen from Sabarimala were smuggled abroad through diplomatic parcels routed via the UAE Consulate in Thiruvananthapuram.
Earlier probes into the diplomatic baggage smuggling case had focused solely on the illicit import of gold through diplomatic consignments routed via Thiruvananthapuram airport, allegedly with the connivance of former consulate staff members Swapna Suresh and P S Sarith.
However, what exactly was sent out of the country through diplomatic parcels using the same channel has never been clearly established. It is against this backdrop that the present investigation has been initiated.
The probe gained momentum after evidence emerged suggesting the existence of an active racket in Kerala involved in smuggling stolen valuables from places of worship in South India, including Sabarimala, to foreign destinations.
As part of the investigation, agencies have begun collecting information from former consulate employees and are examining investigation reports linked to the diplomatic gold smuggling case. Central intelligence agencies, along with economic offence investigators from the Enforcement Directorate and the Customs Preventive wing, are conducting preliminary inquiries. The Enforcement Directorate will register a case if substantive evidence is found.
Contents of diplomatic parcels still unknown
During the investigation into the diplomatic gold smuggling case, central agencies found that several Secretariat employees with no eligibility had been issued diplomatic identity cards. These individuals were allowed unrestricted access to the consulate, enabling them to send parcels through diplomatic channels.
The then State Protocol Officer, B Sunilkumar, had given a statement in this regard to the Customs Preventive wing. Investigators also found that even diplomatic baggage— for which the signature and seal of the State Protocol Officer are mandatory— was allowed to pass through the green channel without these formalities.