The Kerala High Court has observed a "systematic and methodical process" involving the "organised pilferage of sacred valuables" from the Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, specifically concerning the misappropriation of gold from the Dwarapalaka idols and door frames. This significant finding came on January 19, 2026, after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted a comprehensive progress report, which included a chemical analysis report from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). The scientific tests, initiated by the Court, revealed discrepancies between the original gold-clad plates and subsequently plated copper plates, confirming tampering and supporting the Court's apprehension regarding widespread misappropriation. In a related development, former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president N. Vasu, an accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case, had his judicial remand extended for 14 more days by the Kollam Vigilance Court on January 19, 2026. Furthermore, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) escalated its probe by conducting raids at 21 locations across Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu on January 20, 2026. These raids are part of a money laundering investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and targeted premises linked to prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti, former TDB president A. Padmakumar, and others. The SIT has already arrested 11 individuals, including the temple's chief priest, Kandararu Rajeevaru, and is actively scrutinizing three more. The ongoing investigation also brought to light financial irregularities, including an alleged embezzlement of Rs 36.24 lakh from ghee sales, underscoring a wider pattern of misconduct. The High Court has expressed satisfaction with the SIT's progress, highlighting the gravity and widespread nature of the alleged crimes.