Eldho Paul
Meanwhile, Kochi City Police will intensify their probe into the Sept 29 fire at Koder House in Fort Kochi following the arrest of Eldho Paul (32), a native of Puthencruz, in connection with the synagogue incident. Paul was arrested for allegedly setting fire to banners and flex boards belonging to a horticulture nursery maintained by the synagogue’s managing trustee around 2.30am on Monday. Kochi: Two civil police officers (CPOs) have been suspended for a security lapse in connection with the arson attack outside the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue on Market Road in Ernakulam. The discipinary action comes as the synagogue had round-the-clock police protection since the escalation of the conflict in West Asia. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the intelligence bureau have begun preliminary probes into the case. Paul’s mobile phone and other digital devices have been sent for forensic examination. Police are expected to seek his custody for further interrogation.
Police said questioning had not established any direct link between the synagogue attack and the Koder House fire, which caused extensive damage to the heritage building. A short circuit remains the suspected cause, pending forensic findings.