Thiruvananthapuram: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Sabarimala gold theft case has intensified its operations in Tamil Nadu, widening the investigation beyond Kerala to track suspected links.

The SIT is now focusing on a Tamil Nadu-based idol trader identified as D Mani, also known as Diamond Mani and Dawood Mani. The move follows statements by Congress veteran and former Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala and his foreign businessman friend, who reportedly named Mani as a key suspect with alleged links to international antique smuggling networks operating from Chennai.

Investigators traced leads extending outside Kerala, prompting searches in Tamil Nadu. Raids and inspections are under way in areas near Madurai, including Dindigul and Virudhunagar. As part of the operation, the SIT raided a shop owned by Sreekrishnan, suspected to be an associate of Mani. The shop was allegedly involved in the sale of idols and antique utensils.

Mani and his associates have earlier been accused in major financial frauds, including the iridium scam. According to the SIT, the group allegedly cheated people by selling antique handicrafts and metal artefacts, using these activities as a front to accumulate large sums of money.

Investigators have also received indications of possible links between the group and Unnikrishnan Potti. The SIT is examining whether any transactions took place with Unnikrishnan Potti in Thiruvananthapuram and whether gold plates were transferred through such dealings.

Questioned man denies being D Mani

Police on Friday questioned a person whom media reports initially identified as D Mani. However, the individual later, while interacting with the media, denied the claim, saying that his name is MS Mani and that he has no connection to the Sabarimala gold theft case.

He said he informed the investigation team that he was using a phone number registered in his friend’s name and claimed it had been misused by someone else. He also said he did not recognise anyone when police showed him photographs related to the case.

The man further said that he uses the phone number of his friend Balamurugan — a name that surfaced in media reports as the real identity of D Mani — and claimed that he is involved only in the real estate business. He said he answered all questions posed by the SIT and that investigators later realised they had questioned the wrong person. He added that he would continue to cooperate with the probe.

Searches continue in border districts

For the past week, SIT teams have been conducting inspections across Dindigul, Virudhunagar and Madurai. Police believe these districts, due to their proximity to the Kerala border, make idol smuggling easier.

Sources said that if inconsistencies are found in Mani’s statements, he may be taken into custody and brought to Thiruvananthapuram for further questioning. Some media reports claimed he has been issued a summon. It may be noted that an official version on the Mani quizzing is not yet available.