Veeramani case: SIT expands probe after three more minor girls raise complaints against Gem Granites owner
The Special Investigation Team investigating POCSO allegations against Gem Granites owner Veeramani has widened its probe after receiving complaints concerning three additional minor girls.
Police have now received 15 complaints connected with the case. Investigators are examining the latest allegations along with documents, statements and other material collected during the inquiry.
Veeramani, along with Shanthi and her husband Mahendra Simhan, has been arrested and remanded in connection with a POCSO case involving allegations of sexual abuse of a minor.
An all-woman, four-member SIT headed by Additional Commissioner of Police P C Thenmozhi was subsequently formed to investigate the allegations and examine the circumstances surrounding the complaints.
Investigators are assessing each complaint independently, including the alleged incidents, the period in which they reportedly occurred and the individuals named in connection with them.
The team is also reviewing material obtained during the earlier investigation and information emerging from the fresh complaints.
Separately, investigators are looking into allegations that several crores of rupees were allegedly paid as a bribe to prevent Veeramani’s arrest after a POCSO complaint was registered against him last year. The allegation remains under investigation and has not been established.
In a separate development, the mother of a woman has approached the Chennai Police Commissioner with an allegation that her daughter was sexually abused by Veeramani in 2004 and subsequently died by suicide.
The SIT has begun examining the complaint and has reportedly recorded statements from the complainant and her sister. Police have also registered another POCSO case following an allegation involving the sexual abuse of a five-year-old girl.
The latest complaint is being examined alongside the other cases as part of the wider investigation. The SIT has appealed to anyone possessing information about alleged offences involving Veeramani to contact investigators.
A dedicated WhatsApp number, 93453 19676, has been provided for complaints and information. Officials have said complainants’ identities will be treated confidentially in accordance with applicable law.
The investigation remains ongoing, with officers examining each allegation separately before deciding on further legal action.