The SIT will probe the suspected extremist connections of accused Eldho Paul
Kochi : A special investigation team (SIT) will probe the suspected extremist connections of Eldho Paul (32) arrested for allegedly setting fire to boards outside the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue near Ernakulam Market and examine his possible involvement in other criminal activities. Paul, from Puthencruz, was arrested by Ernakulam Central police for allegedly carrying out the arson at 2.30am on Monday. A preliminary examination reportedly revealed videos of the arson and communications with individuals and online groups suspected to have links abroad.
Police said Paul arrived at Blossom Nursery, located in front of the synagogue, in a blue car, allegedly poured petrol on the premises and set it on fire. Kochi City deputy commissioner of police Arun K Pavithran will supervise the SIT while assistant commissioner Sibi Tom will lead it. A team headed by Ernakulam Central station house officer Aneesh Joy had investigated the case initially. He is also suspected to have recorded the incident on his mobile phone before leaving. The probe widened after investigators recovered digital evidence from his mobile phone. Police are also investigating whether Paul acted on the instructions of a person referred to as ‘Boss’, whose identity has not been established. The communications allegedly contain references to Jewish institutions and other potential targets, besides messages concerning attacks in different cities. Police are examining whether the incident was linked to international extremist networks or a wider conspiracy. The possibility of cryptocurrency being used for financial transactions is also being investigated. Separately, Puthencruz police seized suspected narcotic substances from Paul’s rented house. Police also found suspicious communications related to narcotics transactions on his digital devices and passed the information to Ernakulam Rural Police for further inquiry.
Investigators have also found a possible link between Paul and an earlier arson incident in Muvattupuzha.