Thiruvananthapuram/Kochi: Former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) member N Vijayakumar was arrested on Monday in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. Vijayakumar served on the management committee headed by accused A Padmakumar.

Vijayakumar had previously received a notice from the SIT but did not appear for questioning. Following this, the SIT took him into custody from his residence, and his arrest was formally recorded later.

Background of the investigation

During Padmakumar’s tenure as TDB president in 2019, Vijayakumar was a committee member. Another member, K P Shankardas, was also called for questioning.

The SIT had requested both Vijayakumar and Shankardas to appear following criticism from the High Court over delays in questioning. Shankardas reportedly remained hospitalised due to health reasons, while Vijayakumar failed to respond without explanation.

Meanwhile, Shankardas had approached the Kollam Vigilance Court seeking anticipatory bail. The court has yet to consider his application.