KOCHI: Following indications of international terror links associated with the suspect arrested in connection with the arson attempt outside the Kadavumbhagom Synagogue in Kochi, the Kochi City Police has launched an investigation into a mysterious fire at the historic Koder House in Fort Kochi. The incident at Koder House took place under suspicious circumstances two weeks ago.
Pakistan Telegram Chats Recovered From Phone
A preliminary examination of the mobile phone belonging to the accused, Abin B Paul (32), a resident of Vadayampady near Puthencruz, revealed crucial information. Authorities recovered Telegram accounts linked to Pakistan along with chats in Hindi from his device. The attacks were allegedly carried out under the instructions of an individual addressed as ‘Boss’. The operative’s pattern involved setting target sites on fire, capturing and transmitting video footage of the acts, and receiving compensation via cryptocurrency. Following the revelation of international linkages, central agencies including the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) interrogated the suspect. Additionally, 105 grams of synthetic drugs were seized from his residence.
Koder House Fire Under Re-investigation
The fire broke out on the upper floor of the two-century-old heritage structure, Koder House in Fort Kochi, on the evening of September 29. While initially presumed to be an accidental fire caused by a short circuit, police are now thoroughly investigating potential arson involvement in light of the synagogue attack. Given Koder House’s deep connections with Kochi’s Jewish heritage and its history of hosting foreign dignitaries and VIPs, authorities are treating the investigation with high gravity. Kochi City DCP Arun K. Pavithran stated that further details will emerge through digital forensic evidence analysis and custodial interrogation of the accused.
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