Key conduit in ‘Gem Granites’ Veeramani case arrested
Seventh POCSO Act case booked against the octogenarian businessman
Sakthivel, a manager to R. Veeramani, owner of Gem Granites, was arrested by police on Sunday. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which include allegations of sexual abuse of children and abetment of suicide against Veeramani, apprehended Sakthivel.
Investigators suspect Sakthivel played a crucial role in transferring funds and purchasing gold for Veeramani to evade legal action. Veeramani faces multiple allegations of sexual abuse and a case related to aiding suicide. Alongside Veeramani, Shanti, her husband Mahendra Simhan, and five others have been arrested. The Central Crime Branch of the Greater Chennai Police registered a seventh POCSO Act case against Veeramani based on a minor's statement alleging sexual exploitation in Shanti's residence.
The arrest of Sakthivel is expected to reveal more details about the transfer of funds and gold to help Veeramani avoid police action. Authorities are also searching for N. Prakash, who is believed to be in hiding abroad and has a bank balance exceeding ₹20 crore allegedly received through transfers from Veeramani's firms. Incriminating materials were seized from Veeramani's residence, farmhouse, and business establishment.
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