Kochi: The Kerala High Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) has found no evidence against Dindigul-based businessman D. Mani, who reportedly uses multiple aliases, in the Sabarimala gold theft case, according to a report submitted to the High Court.

The investigation initially began based on information from an NRI businessman and claims made by Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala. Following these leads, the SIT conducted a detailed probe into Mani.

The report said that there is no evidence connecting Mani to the Sabarimala gold theft through business dealings or temple-related activities. Investigations in Tamil Nadu also found no proof linking him to the theft.

The NRI businessman, who provided initial information, is currently abroad. The SIT was unable to obtain further details from him.

Mani had visited Thiruvananthapuram twice—once for his father’s post-funeral rituals in Thiruvallam and again with his family for a temple visit. The SIT told the court that these trips were personal and not related to the gold theft or any business activities.

Clarifications on identity and allegations

The SIT traced Mani through a phone number provided by the NRI businessman. Mani told investigators he is neither “D. Mani” nor “Dawood Mani” and uses a SIM registered under his friend Balamurugan’s name.

He also said that he had no knowledge of the Sabarimala gold theft or any of the accused, including Unnikrishnan Potti.