Thiruvananthapuram: D Mani, also known as MS Mani, appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. Mani and his friend Balamurugan reached the SIT office at Enchakkal on Tuesday morning.

The SIT summoned Mani and Balamurugan for questioning based on statements given by Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala and an overseas businessman in connection with the Sabarimala case. Both arrived with their lawyers.

The SIT traced D Mani while probing a phone number provided by the businessman. Mani had earlier informed the investigation team that he is neither D Mani nor Dawood Mani, and that he was only using a SIM card registered in the name of his friend Balamurugan. He had also stated that he had no knowledge of the Sabarimala gold theft, accused Unnikrishnan Potti or any others involved.

Previously, the SIT had been unable to conduct a detailed investigation or collect sufficient information about Mani, who was believed to be based in Dindigul. Subsequently, a notice was issued directing him to appear on Tuesday. The SIT will now examine whether Mani has any connection with the gold heist.