ED conducts search operations at 21 locations across Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) today conducted search operations at 21 locations across Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) 2002. The search operation was conducted in connection with the misappropriation of gold and other temple assets relating to Sabarimala Temple.

The investigation arises out of multiple FIRs registered by the Kerala Crime Branch, which reveal a deep-rooted criminal conspiracy involving officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board, private individuals, intermediaries and jewellers. Preliminary investigation has disclosed that gold-clad sacred artefacts were deliberately misrepresented as copper plates in official records and unlawfully removed from the temple premises during the period 2019-2025. The gold was allegedly extracted through chemical processes at private facilities in Chennai and Karnataka, generating proceeds of crime which were retained, transferred and concealed.

The searches were conducted to trace the proceeds of crime, identify beneficiaries, seize incriminating documents and digital evidence and ascertain the full extent of money laundering involved. The investigation has also revealed indications of other financial irregularities and scams at Sabarimala, including misappropriation related to temple offerings and rituals, which are also being examined under the PMLA framework.