THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Crime Branch has registered two cases in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft, naming Unnikrishnan Potty as the first accused. A total of ten people, including administrative officer Murari Babu, have been charged. Further actions, including arrests, are expected soon.

Murari Babu, who allegedly falsified records to show that gold sheets were copper, is currently under suspension. Former Devaswom secretary, Thiruvabharanam commissioner, and executive officers are among the accused. The officials of Chennai’s Smart Creations, where the gold plating was done, will also be charged later, though they are not yet listed as accused.

The gold plating from the Dwarapalaka sculptures was stolen in March 2019, and the gold from the sanctum’s door frames was stolen in A

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