UAPA Invoked Against Kochi Synagogue Arson Accused as Police Probe Wider Conspiracy

Kerala Police have invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against Ebin Paul, the main accused in the arson attack near the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in Ernakulam, as investigators dig deeper into the possibility of a larger conspiracy.

Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA — dealing with terrorist acts and conspiracy to commit such acts — have been slapped on the accused. The move significantly escalates the probe into the October 12 attack on the nursery outside the synagogue.

A Special Investigation Team is examining whether Ebin acted on instructions from an unidentified handler known only as ‘Boss’. The accused has also mentioned a person named Vikram, whose identity and any possible link to the so-called Boss are under scrutiny. Police are working to determine if the alleged handler is a real person operating from abroad and whether others were involved in planning the attacks.

Ebin has claimed he received directions through phone calls and digital platforms. Investigators are verifying these claims through forensic examination of his mobile phones and other electronic devices. The digital trail is expected to shed light on the nature of the communications, identify those involved, and reveal whether any payments were made for carrying out the attacks.

The probe has widened after police linked Ebin to other arson incidents in Muvattupuzha, including an attempted fire at a locked house and an attack on a used-car showroom. Officers are examining whether these incidents were connected and part of a planned sequence.

The SIT has also extended its inquiries to Pune, where Ebin studied, to gather details about his background and possible connections. Investigators are looking into whether any external network influenced or directed his actions. The National Investigation Agency and other central agencies have already collected information on the case.

The historic status of the synagogue, one of Kerala’s oldest Jewish places of worship, has added an international dimension to the investigation. Police are now focused on identifying the alleged handler, verifying the digital evidence, and establishing the motive behind the attack.

Ebin remains in judicial custody, and further questioning is expected once forensic analysis yields additional leads.