SIT seeks additional police officers in Chennai Pocso case involving Gem Veeramani
The Special Investigation Team investigating the Pocso case involving Gem Group chairman R Veeramani has sought additional officers to strengthen the probe.
Sources said the four-member SIT has proposed names of officers in the deputy superintendent of police rank. Each member is understood to have suggested one or two names, with the proposals now under consideration. A final decision is expected within the next few days.
The development comes as the Chennai police have opposed the bail pleas of two associates arrested along with Veeramani.
Before a special Pocso court, police reportedly argued that releasing the accused could create a risk of evidence being tampered with, witnesses being influenced or the accused leaving the country. The bail pleas are scheduled to come up for hearing on September 29.
The police custody of the two associates is also due to end, after which they are expected to be produced before the court for further directions.
The all-woman SIT is headed by P C Thenmozhi, ACP, Central Crime Branch. The team includes Disha Mittal, joint commissioner of law and order, West; J Mutharasi, superintendent of police and media relations officer; and V V Geethanjali, deputy commissioner handling crimes against women and children.
Four people have been arrested in connection with the case so far.
Veeramani and two associates were arrested on August 29, almost 11 months after the case was registered in October 2025.
Ganesan, 45, a former employee, was arrested on September 22. Police have alleged that he was in possession of a video purportedly showing Veeramani sexually assaulting a minor and had failed to report it.