Crucial evidence seized in POCSO case against Gem Granites owner R. Veeramani
Chennai: Investigators probing allegations of predatory sexual assault against Gem Granites owner R. Veeramani have seized photographs of minor girls — including some of the complainants — during a search at his residence in Chennai, according to police sources. The discovery, made on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, is being viewed as significant corroborative material in the ongoing probe into multiple cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Search leads to seizure of photographs
Acting on a specific input, police conducted searches at the businessman’s home and recovered images of girl children, police sources said. Among the photographs were images of survivors who had filed complaints, leading to the registration of POCSO cases. The victims who came forward have identified the octogenarian granite baron as the person who abused them, the sources added.
Investigators said the seizure further strengthens the allegations that the accused exploited underprivileged girl children and subjected them to sexual abuse over a period of time. The material has been taken into custody for detailed examination.
Multiple cases registered, including abetment to suicide
So far, six cases have been registered under the POCSO Act against the main accused, police sources said. In addition, a separate case of abetment to suicide dating back to 2004 has been booked. While that case also involved a minor girl, investigators clarified that provisions of the POCSO Act could not be invoked for the 2004 incident as the law was not in force at the time.
Forensic authentication of videos
Officials have also obtained forensic confirmation of the genuineness of videos connected to the case. One of the videos is several years old, prompting investigators to send it for detailed forensic analysis to establish authenticity and timeline, according to sources.
Preliminary findings indicate that hidden cameras were used to record videos featuring the accused and the victims. Police sources said the devices had been purchased online, and that Mahendra Simhan — the husband of another accused, Shanti — procured the cameras on different occasions through a popular merchandise platform. The procurement trail is being scrutinized as part of the wider investigation into how the recordings were made and circulated, if at all.
SIT examines police officials as probe widens
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted to handle the sensitive cases has expanded its inquiry to include interactions with law enforcement personnel. According to sources, the SIT examined a few more police officers, including a Deputy Commissioner of Police, as part of efforts to map the investigative chain, verify procedural compliance, and collect any additional inputs relevant to the case.
Next steps
The seized photographs and authenticated videos are expected to play a key role in the next phase of the investigation. Officials are continuing to record statements, verify digital and physical evidence, and trace the procurement and possible use of surveillance devices linked to the alleged offences. Further searches and examinations, including forensic audits of devices, are likely as the SIT proceeds.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities indicated that more summonses and evidence-collection measures could follow based on leads emerging from the latest seizures.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available on the State’s health helpline 104 and via Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline at 044-2464 0050.
