MALAPPURAM: An arrest in the Perinthalmanna gold robbery case has reignited discussions about the death of violinist Balabhaskar.
Among the nine individuals arrested last Sunday in connection with the theft of 3 kilogram of gold ornaments from Yusuf and his brother Shanavas, owners of KM Jewellery in Perinthalmanna, was Arjun, of Kuriyedath Mana, Patturakkal, who was driving Balabhaskar’s car at the time of the tragic accident.
The arrest has led to renewed speculation about the possible involvement of the gold mafia in the violinist’s death.
“So far, 13 people have been arrested in the robbery case. Among the nine arrested on Sunday is Arjun, who has since been remanded in judicial custody,” said police.
Balabhaskar and his daughter lost their lives in a road accident in the early hours of September 25, 2018, while his wife, Lakshmi, sustained serious injuries.
Arjun had allegedly attempted to portray Balabhaskar as the driver at the time of the accident. It is believed that Arjun made this statement hoping that Lakshmi, who was critically injured, would not survive to contradict him. However, Lakshmi recovered and provided a statement to the police implicating Arjun.
Subsequent scientific investigations confirmed that it was Arjun who was driving the car. Earlier, Balabhaskar’s manager and others had been arrested in connection with gold smuggling.