SIT to probe extremist links in Kochi synagogue arson case; suspect's phone holds key evidence
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to conduct a detailed probe into the suspected extremist links of a man arrested in connection with an alleged arson attack on the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue near Ernakulam Market in Keralam, and to determine whether he is connected to other criminal activities.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Kochi City) Arun K. Pavithran will supervise the SIT, which is led by Assistant Commissioner Sibi Tom. The case is currently being investigated by a team headed by Ernakulam Central Station House Officer Aneesh Joy.
The Ernakulam Central police arrested Ebin Paul, 32, a native of Puthencruz, for allegedly setting fire to boards kept outside the synagogue gate in the early hours of October 12. Separately, the Puthencruz police seized a cache of suspected narcotic substances from a rented house used by him in Puthencruz.
According to the investigation, the incident occurred around 2.40 a.m. on October 12, when a fire was deliberately set at Blossom Nursery, located in front of the synagogue. The police said the accused arrived in a blue car, poured petrol on the premises and set it ablaze. He is alleged to have recorded the incident on his mobile phone before fleeing the scene.
Officers said a preliminary examination of the phone reportedly uncovered not only videos of the arson but also communications with individuals and online groups suspected of having foreign links. Preliminary findings suggest a pattern in which targets were assigned, attacks carried out and recorded, and the footage sent back in exchange for payment, police sources said. Authorities are also examining indications that payments may have been made through cryptocurrency.
According to the police, the communications allegedly contained references to Jewish institutions and other potential targets, as well as messages relating to attacks in various cities across the country. In this context, investigators are examining whether the incident has links to international extremist networks or a broader organised conspiracy. The nature of these communications, the identity of those involved, financial transactions and possible links to other criminal activities are all under scrutiny. Central agencies have also begun examining the available information.
Another significant development was the discovery of a possible link between the suspect and a similar arson incident that occurred earlier in Muvattupuzha. A comparison of video evidence from both cases, along with material recovered from his mobile phone, reportedly suggested his involvement. Police said the accused admitted to his role in the Muvattupuzha incident during questioning.
Investigators also said they found suspicious communications relating to narcotics transactions on his digital devices. The information has been shared with the Ernakulam Rural Police, which has initiated further inquiries and seizure proceedings.
The investigation team has prioritised forensic analysis of the suspect's mobile phone and other devices, tracing the origin of communications, scrutinising financial transactions and identifying links to other crimes.
The team includes Sub-Inspectors Anoop C., Subodh and E.M. Shaji; Assistant Sub-Inspector Sunil Jaleel; officers Anoop, Prasanth Babu, Vibin, Hareesh Babu, Akhilesh and Shibu; cyber cell officer Rahul; and special cell officers Harikumar, Edwin, Sunil Kumar, Unnikrishnan and Bipin.
These are allegations made by the police and are yet to be established in court. The Kadavumbhagam Synagogue is a heritage place of worship, and the police have not confirmed any motive so far. The investigation is continuing, and readers are urged to await its outcome rather than draw conclusions about individuals or communities.
