Kochi synagogue arson accused linked to two earlier fire incidents: Police
The Special Investigation Team suspects that videos of the incident were sent to his handlers through Telegram.
Digital Arrest Scam: Kochi Man Arrested
A man from Kochi has been arrested in connection with a 'digital arrest' scam that defrauded a retired judge in Rajasthan of Rs 2.5 crore. The accused allegedly threatened the judge with false links to hawala transactions and the Pulwama case, leading to his apprehension in a coordinated police operation.
Kochi Arson Suspect Linked To Gangster Bishnoi Via Online Searches
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Kochi is probing a possible terror link in an arson case near a synagogue, where the accused, Ebin Paul, was found to have searched online for gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and exchanged related messages on Telegram. Paul was arrested for setting fire to Blossom Nursery on October 12 and has been remanded to judicial custody. Investigators have not found direct evidence linking him to the Bishnoi gang but have uncovered previous arson attempts by Paul in Muvattupuzha. Central agencies, including the NIA, are also involved in the ongoing probe.
Molineux, Dunkley enter WPL 2027 auction with top base price of INR 50 lakh
A total of 146 players will be competing for 27 available slots in the WPL mini auction on October 28 in Kochi
WPL 2027: Dunkley, Molineux At Highest Base Price As 146 Players Enter Auction
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: England batter Sophia Dunkley and Australia captain Sophie Molineux have registered themselves at the highest base price of Rs 50 lakh for the player auction for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 to be held in Kochi on October 28. Indian wicketkeeper-batter G. Kamalini, who was released by two-time winners Mumbai Indians, and batter Kiran Navgire, let go by the UP Warriorz, along with Australian duo Heather Graham and Jess Jonassen, are in the next bracket with a base price of Rs 40 lakh. Another 30 players have registered at a base price of Rs 30 lakh. In all, 146 players will go under the hammer for 27 available slots at the auction, which will begin at 5:30 pm at the Grand Hyatt hotel. The pool includes 119 Indians - 22 of them capped and 97 uncapped - competing for 20 slots. The overseas contingent comprises 27 players -- 14 capped and 13 uncapped, vying for the remaining seven spots. Six players from Associate nations are also on the list. UP Warriorz will head into the auction with the biggest purse of Rs 3.65 crore and have seven slots to fill, including two for overseas players. MI also have seven vacancies, one of them for an overseas player, but have the smallest purse of Rs 1 crore. Defending champions and two-time winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru have Rs 1.15 crore to fill five slots, including two overseas spots, while four-time runners-up Delhi Capitals have Rs 1.1 crore for five slots, one of which is for an overseas player. Gujarat Giants have the fewest slots to fill, with Rs 1.25 crore available for three players, including one for an overseas cricketer. Australia have the largest overseas presence in the auction pool, with Grace Harris, Tayla Vlaeminck, Tess Flintoff, Charli Knott, Samantha Bates, Maitlan Brown, Maddie Penna and Milly Illingworth registering alongside Sophie, Heather and Jess, who have been a part of the WPL previously. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu and young pacer Mithali Ayodya are also in the pool, along with South Africa's quartet of Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke and Chloe Tryon, and Ireland's seam-bowling all-rounder Orla Prendergast. Scotland lead the Associate contingent, with sisters Sarah and Kathryn Bryce, who have played in the WPL previously, as well as Darcey Carter and Kirstie Gordon in the fray. Babette de Leede and Esha Oza, captains of the Netherlands and UAE respectively, complete the list. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu and young pacer Mithali Ayodya are also in the pool, along with South Africa's quartet of Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke and Chloe Tryon, and Ireland's seam-bowling all-rounder Orla Prendergast. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Molineux At Highest Base Price; WPL 2027 Auction To Be Held On This Day
England batter Sophia Dunkley and Australia captain Sophie Molineux have registered themselves at the highest base price of Rs 50 lakh for the player auction for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 to be held in Kochi.
WPL auction: Check date, time, full list of players going under the hammer and other details
The TATA Womens Premier League 2027 auction will take place in Kochi, Kerala. A total of 146 players are available for the five franchises to choose from. Of these, 119 are Indian players, while 27 players are overseas cricketers. The auction will begin at 5:30 PM, allowing teams to strengthen their squads with strategic choices.
WPL 2027 Auction: 146 players, including 119 Indians, to go under the hammer in Kochi
WPL 2027 auction: 146 players for 27 slots in Kochi on 28 October
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CMRL-Exalogic case: Rema salvo, Chandy flex boards pile pressure on Kerala CM Satheesan
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 19 (IANS) Independent MLA K.K. Rema's sharp criticism of the UDF government's handling of the cases against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, coupled with the appearance of pro-Oommen Chandy flex boards in Kottayam, has brought growing discontent over the issue into sharper focus, putting Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan in a difficult political position. The latest developments indicate that the objections first raised by Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan over the government's legal stand in the CMRL-Exalogic case involving T. Veena, daughter of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, are finding wider resonance within the UDF camp. In a strongly-worded Facebook post, Rema questioned the government's position in Vijayan's appeal against the High Court Single Bench order directing registration of an FIR and a Vigilance investigation. While backing the decision to conduct an independent investigation into the evidence handed over by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), she said the subsequent stand taken by the government lawyer before the Division Bench was disappointing and weakened the UDF's stated position against corruption. Rema argued that the government had no obligation to act according to the ED's script, but said the evidence should be examined independently and the law allowed to take its course. She called on the government to consider the criticism constructively. Rema is an independent MLA who won with the support of the Congress-led UDF . Her husband T.P. Chandrasekharan was brutally killed by CPI-M workers in 2012 because he split with CPI(M) and formed his own party at his home turf in Kozhikode. The political undercurrent was also visible in Kottayam, where flex boards appeared at four locations, including Gandhi Square and near the District Congress Committee office. Carrying messages such as We have forgotten nothing, Vijayan and Even if you forget, we will not forget, the boards invoked the memory of Oommen Chandy and the political battles he faced during the previous LDF government's tenure led by Vijayan. The messages reflect the anger of a section of Congress workers who question why Vijayan should receive what they perceive as more favourable treatment than the former Congress Chief Minister Chandy who was targeted. Kuzhalnadan had earlier questioned the government's position, recalling Chandy's appearance before the Justice G. Sivarajan Commission and the political attacks against him. His intervention has helped bring the issue into an open debate within the party. However, Chandy's son and Puthuppally MLA, Chandy Oommen, has urged restraint, saying that the injustice suffered by his father should not become a reason to persecute another person. For Satheesan, the challenge is to defend the government's insistence on an independent, legally sustainable investigation while addressing growing unease among Congress leaders and workers. With criticism extending beyond Kuzhalnadan, the issue is increasingly becoming a test of the UDF government's credibility on corruption and its ability to maintain unity within its own ranks. Vijayan has been asked to appear before the ED at their Kochi office on Friday, while his petition is before the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the High Court verdict, which had put Vijayan as first accused in an FIR registered by the Vigilance in the CMRL-Exalogic case.
Kerala HM warns of stringent checks against illegal activities in spas
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 19 (IANS) Kerala Home Minister, Ramesh Chennithala, on Monday warned that stringent checks and monitoring would be introduced against illegal activities operating under the guise of spas, making it clear that no wrongdoer would be allowed to escape the law. The warning comes amid a disturbing series of cases in which women seeking employment and a minor girl have allegedly been subjected to sexual exploitation, raising serious questions about the functioning and regulation of some spa and wellness centres in Kerala. The latest case to shock the state is the alleged sexual exploitation of a 16-year-old girl from Andhra Pradesh at spas in Kovalam. The girl, who had lost both her parents, was allegedly brought to Kerala by her maternal aunt and the latters husband and exploited over several months. Two spa operators have been arrested, while police have formed a Special Investigation Team, including cyber experts, to trace others involved. Investigators are also probing suspected benami links involving a municipal health inspector. The case has reinforced concerns that some establishments may be operating as fronts for organised exploitation rackets, with the possibility of wider networks involving intermediaries and customers. In Kochi, a woman who responded to a job offer at a spa was allegedly lured to a lodge in Edappally and sexually assaulted after being drugged. Four persons have been arrested in connection with the case, and police are examining the alleged links between the accused and other spa establishments. The investigation has also raised suspicions that the principal accused may have interests in several spas operating in the city. In another disturbing incident reported from Thiruvalla earlier this year, a woman employee at an Ayurvedic spa was allegedly sexually assaulted after a group demanded extortion money from the establishment. Police said the attack followed the refusal to pay the money sought. The recurrence of such cases has brought the regulatory framework governing spas under scrutiny. Questions have also been raised about how establishments operate without valid licences and whether inspections are adequate to detect exploitation, trafficking and other illegal activities. The police have launched statewide inspections under 'Operation Spa'. Of the 821 registered spa centres, 586 were inspected, 14 cases were registered and notices were issued to 44 establishments found violating legal provisions. The challenge now is to ensure that enforcement does not remain a temporary response to sensational crimes. Spas providing legitimate therapeutic and wellness services should not be tarred with the same brush. However, those using such establishments to exploit women or minors must face swift and uncompromising action. Effective licencing, regular inspections, employee verification and sustained police monitoring will be crucial to prevent further abuse.
Presidium School, Nehru World School win Delhi leg of ACG Jr. NBA 3v3 tournament
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 19 (IANS) Presidium School Team A from Gurgaon and Nehru World School Team A from Ghaziabad emerged as the girls and boys champions, respectively, at the Delhi leg of the ACG Jr. NBA 3v3 Tournament, which concluded at the KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. The under-16 school basketball competition saw teams from across the region compete for honours and places in the national finals, scheduled for December 2026. The tournament is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at developing young basketball talent through competitive opportunities. In the boys category, Nehru World School Team A secured the title with Ansh Tomer, Jatin Sharma, Darshil Singh and Vansh Sharma forming the winning lineup. Meerut Public School Team A from Delhi finished runners-up, while The Maan School Team A, also from Delhi, claimed third place. Presidium School Team A dominated the girls competition to take the championship, with Anaya Dhankhar, Ava Dahiya, Ayana Gupta and Aahana Bisht comprising the victorious team. Shiv Nadar School Team A from Noida finished second, while Meerut Public School Team A secured third place. Anaya Dhankhar and Darshil Singh were recognised with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards for their performances during the Delhi leg. The tournament also selected All-Star teams in both divisions, providing additional opportunities for young players to progress. The top two teams in each category, along with one All-Star team from each division, will advance to the national finals in December. The 2026 edition marks a shift to an under-16 age classification, with the programme operating under the theme Where Stars Are Born. The tournament is being conducted by the National Basketball Association (NBA) in association with ACG and the Basketball Federation of India (BFI). The national competition is scheduled to visit 10 Indian cities: Ahmedabad, Indore, Kochi, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Prayagraj and Ludhiana. The ACG Jr. NBA programme focuses on teaching basketball fundamentals and promoting the sports core values among young people. Last year, the initiative engaged more than 8,000 players across 2,000 boys and girls teams representing 900 schools, with over 2,700 games played across 10 cities. The programme forms part of the NBAs broader youth development efforts in India, which also include NBA Basketball School, a network of training programmes for boys and girls aged six to 18 across 13 cities, operated by India On Track.
Work on first phase of new KSRTC bus terminal at Karikkamuri to begin soon
Tender awarded for 9.23 crore; the first phase will have dedicated bus bays, with provision for future vertical expansion; the new terminal is expected to address the long-standing problem of waterlogging at the existing bus stand
INS Sudarshini departs Omans Salalah, continues Lokayan-2026 transoceanic deployment
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 18 (IANS) Indian Navys three-masted sail training ship INS Sudarshini has departed Salalah in Oman after a four-day port call, continuing her historic transoceanic deployment Lokayan-2026, the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday. The ship visited Salalah from October 14 to 17, during which professional interactions and sporting engagements with the Royal Navy of Oman fostered camaraderie and strengthened people-to-people ties, the Ministry said. The voyage reflects the Indian Navys rich maritime heritage and its commitment to nurturing professional seamanship, resilience and leadership among naval trainees, the Ministry said in a statement. As Lokayan-2026 progresses through its tenth month, INS Sudarshinis voyage exemplifies the Indian Navys spirit of exploration, professional excellence and commitment to maritime diplomacy. Traversing international waters, the ship serves as an ambassador of India, fostering goodwill and maritime partnerships while carrying the civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and advancing the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), it added. On Friday, INS Sudarshini welcomed over 500 members of the Indian diaspora on board at Omans Salalah, including children and teachers from Indian School Salalah, the Indian Embassy in Muscat said. INS Sudarshini welcomed over 500 members of the Indian diaspora at Salalah, including children and teachers from Indian School Salalah, for a visit onboard the Indian Navys premier sail training ship. The crew introduced the visitors to life onboard a sail ship and shared enriching experiences from their ongoing transoceanic expedition Lokayan-26, the Embassy had posted on X. The visit instilled a sense of pride among the visiting diaspora about the growing capabilities and widely-reckoned seafaring tradition of the Indian Navy, it added. The 10-month Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition commenced from Kochi on January 20, with INS Sudarshini scheduled to cover approximately 22,000 nautical miles across 18 ports in 13 countries. Since the start of the voyage, the three-masted barque has traversed the Arabian, the Red, and the Mediterranean Seas, undertaken a transit of the Suez Canal, and participated in Frances prestigious maritime festival Escale a Sete maritime festival, according to the Ministry of Defence. The ship subsequently undertook the historic first Atlantic crossing, arriving at Antigua on May 27 after a 19-day passage from Cape Verde. During the passage, the ship crossed the milestone of 10,000 nautical miles since departing Kochi.
Senior citizen home hunt: Seeking house for aged parents? Home prices below 70 lakh and improving healthcare options have made tier 2 cities and spiritual hubs such as Kochi, Nashik, Varanasi and Haridwar popular.
Kerala High Court denies stay on government order reconstituting State Waqf Board
Court holds that the State government has the authority to cancel appointments made to the previous board. Petition by K.S. Hamza, former board chairperson, says government order is violative of an earlier High Court directive to fill vacancies on the previous board
KWA administrative fee on water tankers hits civic bodys water supply hard
Along with water charges, tanker operators have to pay administrative fees, and the increased cost is affecting drinking water supply through tankers, says Panampilly Nagar councillor Antony Painuthara. Health standing committee chairperson Seena Gokulan demands that the charges be rolled back.
Cusat association requests V-C to revoke suspension of four officials
Cusat Employees Association representatives alleged that the officials were not given an opportunity to explain their position and that they were suspended before issuing a charge memo.
MVD, police detect 159 offences, impose 8 lakh fine in special drive
The offences detected included driving without a licence, evasion of road tax, non-payment of insurance, and illegal vehicle modifications, according to the RTO (Enforcement), Ernakulam.
Woman held for allegedly killing husband, dumping body on rail tracks in Kochi
Woman Kills Husband Over Daughter's Harassment, Dumps Body On Tracks
An Odisha-native woman has been taken into custody in Kochi for allegedly murdering her husband, Ajeeta Naik, and dumping his body near a railway track. The woman claims she attacked Naik after he allegedly attempted to sexually harass her 16-year-old daughter. Police are investigating the incident, including potential charges under the POCSO Act.
Call for graduated driver licensing to prevent accidents involving new and teenaged drivers
The system, which is the norm in many countries, will help them gain experience and build safety skills over time, before getting driving licence, says road safety expert
Makkekadavu-Nerekadavu bridge to be inaugurated on October 18
The bridge, which is 800 metres long, has been built at a cost of 98.09 crore
Young filmmaker Belraj Kalarickal dies in Kochi
Cage-trapping of black panther in Keralams Pathanamthitta raises concern
Wildlife conservationists fear that the animal could be permanently kept in captivity and not released to the wild; the cub, aged around two, had walked into one of the two cages set in the area, which has a history of human-wildlife conflicts involving leopards
Malayalam filmmaker Belraj Kalarickal dies at 27
Belraj Kalarickal, a Malayalam filmmaker, recently died at the age of 27, possibly from a heart attack. He was discovered in a hotel room in Kochi, to the shock of his colleagues. Belraj had recently made his directorial debut with the web series 'Kappi Squad' just days before his death. He was a founding member of First Print Studios, contributing significantly to its projects.
Nedumbassery crash: Keralam court denies bail to all four accused
Nedumbassery police had arrested Suhail Sajeev, 19, who allegedly drove the car under the influence of alcohol, and three co-passengers, Ninav, 19; Ameer, 20; and Joel, 20 in connection with the accident that claimed three lives; the accused are likely to move the district court in appeal
ED Issues Notice at Pinarayi Vijayans Residence, Orders Appearance in Kochi
The Enforcement Directorate has issued a notice to former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, directing him to appear in Kochi amid ongoing investigations. ED Issues Notice at Pinarayi Vijayans Residence, Orders Appearance in Kochi
Luxury car in Nedumbassery accident was speeding above 165 kmph, say police citing camera analysis
Home Minister critical of media reports alleging political interference aimed at protecting the accused
Panel issues notices seeking reports from Greater Cochin Development Authority, Kochi Corporation, Local Self-Government Department, Life Mission and District Collector
Kochi artist Jazeela Sherifs solo show dwells on the meditative quality of watercolour
Unhurried Soul is an invitation for viewers to pause and reflect, says the artist
Attire is a citizens choice: Kerala HC backs school headmistress over attire row
Court was considering a petition by headmistress of a Kollam school seeking to disqualify school manager for allegedly denying her entry for wearing churidar-kameez instead of a sari
Two Kochi-Riyadh flights cancelled over security concerns
Akasa Air and Saudia flights from Kochi cancelled amid reported disruptions at Riyadh airport
Geopolitical tensions, erratic weather cloud Keralams foreign tourism outlook
Tourists displaying heightened awareness of and responsiveness to real-time updates on costs, safety, and climatic conditions is adding to the challenges for States such as Keralam
Rail coach restaurant to add a new attraction near Mattancherry Halt station
RCR at Mattancherry Halt being developed under renovate, operate, maintain and transfer model; menu to be approved by Railways
Spas in Kochi come under scanner after a series of alleged crimes
Two men reportedly running several spas arrested in alleged gang rape case; at least two others reportedly absconding; officials flag concerns over recruitment practices at wellness centres and alleged abuse of women employees; police to examine whether spas are being run with the required permissions and licences
SHRC seeks permanent solution to the damage on the approach road and side railings of the bridge across the Thevara-Perandoor Canal near the Kochi metro station at Kadavanthra
Accused's blood alcohol level found to be five times the legal limit: Reports
Flow of suspected ganja into Kochi continues as seizures cross 120 kg in three months
The seizure and related arrests of suspected peddlers have prompted an extensive probe to trace the supply chain and identify the local networks facilitating its distribution, say police
Artist from Odisha crafts idols for Puja pandals in Kochi
Puja pandals get ready as the city gears up for the culmination of the Navaratri festivities
Private bus operators to strike in Keralam from November 3
They demand that free travel scheme for women be extended to private buses as well, and that the government reimburse bus operators for their ticket fares.
Nedumbassery accident: Accuseds blood contained alcohol five times the legal limit, say police
Ninav, the second accused, also tested positive, as investigators say visuals show Suhail entering the drivers seat and exiting after the accident. The four suspects are in judicial custody, with the probe continuing to establish the sequence of events leading to the fatal crash.
Asian Para Games: Indian para-archers get Japan exposure, SAI centres host training camps
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 16 (IANS) Indias 168-member contingent for the Asian Para Games 2026 has received extensive government support through domestic training camps, international competition exposure, equipment and overseas training, with para-archers attending a preparatory camp in Japan ahead of the multi-sport event in Aichi-Nagoya. The Indian contingent comprises 112 men and 56 women competing across 11 disciplines. Of the total athletes, 47 are part of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), 33 are Khelo India athletes, and 61 will make their debut at the Games. The support has been extended primarily through the Annual Calendar for Training and Competition (ACTC) and TOPS, with 80.22 crore allocated under ACTC and 18.34 crore under TOPS. As part of their preparations, the para-archery contingent attended an international training camp at the Kurobe Archery Centre in Japan between September and October. The archers also trained at the Sports Authority of Indias (SAI) Regional Centre in Sonipat as part of their domestic preparations. National Coaching Camps were organised at various centres for athletes across disciplines. Para-swimmers and para-powerlifters trained at the SAI Regional Centre in Gandhinagar, while other para-athletes attended camps at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, SAI Sonipat and the SAI Regional Centre in Bengaluru. Para-shooters were trained at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, while the mens blind football team attended a camp in Kochi. Blind judo athletes prepared at the Indian Para Judo Academy in Lucknow, while para-cyclists trained at the cycling velodrome at SAIs Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi. Indian para-badminton and para-table tennis players, along with the mens blind football team, began their campaigns on Friday. India will compete in para-athletics, para-archery, para-badminton, para-table tennis, boccia, blind football, para-cycling, blind judo, para-powerlifting, para-shooting and para-swimming. The opening ceremony is scheduled for October 18, with shuttler Pramod Bhagat and para-table tennis player Bhavina Patel serving as Indias flagbearers. Medal events will take place from October 19 to 24.
The court says Rugby should be included in State-level sports events as it is part of the National School Games
Indias Viksit Bharat 2047 vision needs climate-resilient housing, says National Building Code chief
Speaking at a Kochi lecture, V. Suresh highlighted climate-resilient construction, Keralas housing challenges and rising urban housing demand across India
Tea prices drop at Kochi auctions on weak upcountry, subdued demand
Traders said that most of the upcountry buyers stayed away from the market in Sale 42 on account of long Puja holidays, leading to a weak purchase and the trend is likely to continue for the next auctions as well
Kochi Metro to recruit 70 Apprentice Posts
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has invited offline applications for 70 vacancies, including Graduate, Diploma, and Trade Apprentice posts. Applications can be submitted from 15 October 2026 to 10 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit kochimetro.org.
Police Examine Electronic Devices of Accused in Arson Near Kochi Synagogue
Police are investigating whether he carried out attacks on designated targets at the direction of an unidentified person, recorded the incidents and sent the footage in return for payment
Fire breaks out in office of consultancy firm in Keralams Kochi
Kerala State Drugs Control dept. seeks curbs on inter-State drug procurement to ensure traceability
The department has sought the restriction for a period of six months, during which the firms would be required to procure medicines through authorised medical depots within Keralam
Health experts warn of spike in infectious diseases as northeast monsoon arrives in Keralam
Rise in vector and water-borne diseases due to intermittent rain remains a major health concern; local bodies told to strengthen implementation of Arogyabheri, a year-long epidemic prevention action plan that focusses on disease prevention
HC asks if AI cameras installed on roads across State can track overspeeding vehicles
Court seeks details of vehicles travelling at speeds exceeding 150 kmph and follow-up action taken; government asked to specify time needed to introduce a centralised monitoring system
Kochi couple turns house into a museum of dolls this Navarathri
From gods and cricketers to their LPG delivery agent, this 4,000-doll display fills a Kochi couples home
Arson outside synagogue in Kochi: SIT gets five-day custody of accused
The SIT is analysing digital evidence to establish whether a wider network was involved and identify those who may have directed the attack
Arson outside synagogue in Kochi: SIT gets five-day custody of accused
The SIT is analysing digital evidence to establish whether a wider network was involved and identify those who may have directed the attack
Kochi Port set to cruise into the future of AI immigration
No more waiting for passport scans and fingerprint biometric identification for cruise travellers
Accused Ebin Paul sent to five days' police custody: Reports
Abhimanyu murder case trial gets under way with examination of eyewitness
Special public prosecutor examines Subin, who was reportedly with Abhimanyu during the fatal attack. He identifies the accused, including the one who allegedly stabbed Abhimanyu
Mini Cooper Crash: Accused Taken To Scene
Police took prime accused Suhail to the accident spot in Nedumbassery near Kochi for evidence collection in the high-profile Mini Cooper crash case. Three youngsters died on October 11 when Suhail, allegedly driving under the influence, hit their scooter. The accused were also taken to bars where they reportedly consumed alcohol, and will be produced before the court later on Thursday.
Kochi synagogue arson case: What happened, and history of over 800-year-old structure
A fire was deliberately set at Blossom Nursery, located in front of the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in Ernakulam, around 2.40 a.m. on October 12, 2026
Operation Toofan: 30 Kg Ganja Seized In Kochi
Kochi police have arrested Abdul Hai Molla and seized over 30 kg of ganja, valued at approximately Rs 50 lakh, as part of the anti-narcotics drive Operation Toofan. Molla, from West Bengal, is suspected of transporting the ganja from Odisha to Kerala for wholesale distribution.
Kochi Mayor elected to global climate alliances board
CMFRIs STI hub helps set up 84 micro-enterprises in eight districts
Initiative directly benefits 469 people, including 220 women and six transpersons; household incomes of beneficiaries rise by 30% to 35%, according to CMFRI communication
Aluva DySP Baiju Paulose to investigate Nedumbassery car accident case
State Excise Commissioner suspends the licences of three bars in Ernakulam on the charge of serving liquor to the accused aged under 23
Kerala HC denies temporary stay on toll collection at Nattika Fee Plaza
The court reiterated its order in another PIL filed by former MP T.N. Prathapan challenging the same toll collection
CM Satheesan unveils land for equity plan to attract port investments
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 14 (IANS) Kerala plans to use government land as equity to attract investment in port development, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan told the Assembly on Wednesday. The proposal is part of Mission Samudra, a plan to develop the states ports and expand its maritime economy. The government also proposes to allow port concessions for up to 45 years to attract investors. Satheesan was speaking while introducing the Kerala Maritime Board (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to strengthen the Board and speed up decisions on port development. The proposed changes would bring the Chief Minister to the helm of the Board. Representatives of key departments, including Finance, Industries, Fisheries, Revenue and Law, would work together to resolve issues related to port projects. The government plans to mobilise funds through private investors, public sector companies, government-to-government partnerships, and transparent bidding. It hopes to use government land as its contribution to projects instead of meeting the entire investment cost from the state budget. The Bill also proposes a maritime land bank and the restoration of Port Area Development Authorities to plan and develop areas around ports. It seeks to provide a clearer legal framework for public-private partnership projects. The government wants to expand coastal shipping to carry goods such as oil, gas, chemicals, and other cargo. Satheesan said sea transport could cost around one-third of road transport, making it an attractive alternative for moving goods. The plan also includes cruise terminals at Kochi and Kozhikode, with possible passenger services connecting Kerala to destinations such as Goa, as well as Dubai, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka. River cruises linking the states 44 rivers are envisaged in a later phase. Mission Samudra also aims to revive seafood exports, promote industries linked to ports and develop logistics parks, container stations, and warehouses. The government hopes these projects will create jobs and strengthen local businesses. The Chief Minister said Kerala would also encourage courses in logistics, maritime law and maritime history to prepare young people for jobs in the sector. The plan includes a proposed Rs 3,200 crore ring road linked to the development of Vizhinjam port. The government expects Mission Samudra to attract investment and turn Keralas coastline and ports into major centres of trade and economic activity.
V Muraleedharan raises security concerns over Kochi synagogue arson
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Kochi synagogue arson suspect paid; police probe wider links
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Police stopped the march before it reached the station by erecting barricades on the road. Slogan-shouting protesters attempted to breach the barriers
Foreign network, crypto payments under probe after Kerala man held for arson near Kochi synagogue
Anarson incident at the Synagogue in Kerala's Kochi has taken a potentially serious turn, with the police probinglinks to a foreignnetwork that may have been behind the attack. Police have recovered the accused's conversations with...
Synagogue Arson Bid: BJP Alleges Plot to Erase Keralam's Jewish Heritage
BJP leader Radhakrishnan said the Jewish community had been welcomed in India and had made significant contributions to Kochi's development
Kerala Man Arrested For Arson Near Kochi Synagogue, Foreign Link Under Probe
NDTV accessed the CCTV footage of the suspect setting the fire at the nursery. The visuals show the man recording the act as well.
Kochi police have arrested a 32-year-old man in connection with an arson attack targeting a nursery near the Kadavubhagam synagogue in Ernakulam Market on October 12 (Monday), with investigators probing possible international terror links and a wider conspiracy. The accused, identified as Ebin Paul, was arrested within hours of the incident. Police officials found that petrol had allegedly been used to start the fire and that the accused had recorded the act on his mobile phone before fleeing, according to the information available. During the investigation, police reportedly found communications on his phone referring to Jewish places of worship, attacks in different Indian cities and possible cryptocurrency payments from a person referred to as Boss. Officials are also examining the accused's alleged link to an earlier arson incident in Muvattupuzha. A subsequent search of his rented house in Puthencruz led to the seizure of suspected illegal drugs and narcotic substances, accordin...
Man arrested for arson near Kochi synagogue; terror links probed
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Foreign links, crypto payments under scanner in Kerala synagogue arson case
Digital Desk | Kochi, Oct 14 (IANS) The arson attack near a Jewish synagogue in Kerala's Ernakulam is being investigated for possible international terror links after police found suspicious messages, foreign-linked communications and references to attacks in different Indian cities on the arrested accuseds mobile phone. Ebin Paul, 32, a native of Puthencruz, was arrested within hours of the October 12 incident in which a fire was set at Blossom Nursery, near the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in Ernakulam Market. Police suspect that the accused acted on the instructions of a person he referred to as his boss. Preliminary investigations indicate that he was allegedly assigned targets, asked to carry out attacks and send video footage in return for payment. Investigators are examining information that he may have received money through cryptocurrency. The phone reportedly contained messages referring to Jewish places of worship and possible attacks in different cities. Communications with individuals having foreign links were also found, prompting Central agencies to examine whether the incident was part of a wider conspiracy. The accused allegedly arrived at the nursery in a blue car around 2.30 a.m., poured petrol and set fire to the premises. He recorded the act on his mobile phone before fleeing, investigators found. Kochi City Police launched an intensive investigation, treating the location near a Jewish place of worship as a matter of security concern. CCTV cameras at most shops in the market were not functioning at night, posing an initial challenge. However, investigators examined available footage from the market and nearby areas and gathered information from around 150 people. With the help of the cyber wing, police traced the blue car despite being unable to clearly establish its registration number. The trail led them to a rented house in Puthencruz, where Ebin was arrested. Investigators also linked him to an earlier arson incident involving a used car showroom in Muvattupuzha. Police said he admitted his involvement in that case during questioning. Suspicious communications relating to drug transactions were also found on his digital devices. The information has been handed over to Ernakulam Rural Police for further investigation. The police are examining the messages, financial transactions and possible links of the accused to establish the full extent of the alleged conspiracy. The accuseds mental condition is also being examined.
SIT formed to probe suspected extremist links in Keralams Ernakulam synagogue arson case
Preliminary examination of the accuseds mobile phone reportedly revealed videos of the arson incident and communications with individuals and online groups suspected of having foreign links
T.J. Vinod, MLA, raises Kochis water scarcity issue in Keralam Assembly
Kochis tail-end areas parched as water crisis deepens
Residents in Valappilkadavu Road say over 100 houses have been affected, with households spending 800 to 1,000 a week on tanker water; residents in several areas, including SRM Road, Pachalam, Vaduthala and Kannachan Thodu, report acute water shortages; KWA sources attribute the supply pressure problems to increased consumption and the reduced functioning of the Thammanam tank
Arson Near Synagogue: Kochi Police Probe Conspiracy Angle
A 32-year-old man, Ebin B Paul, has been arrested in Kochi for allegedly setting fire to a plant nursery in front of a synagogue. Police suspect a wider conspiracy and have seized various narcotic substances from his residence during the investigation. The incident occurred on September 12.
AWHO moves HC against panel directive to take possession of Chanderkunj Army Towers in Kochi
DC Committee had directed AWHO to take possession of the apartments from owners before demolition; AWHO claims the towers and apartments are no longer under its ownership or possession
SIC may seek clarification from Kochi Corporation on alleged move to curb RTI applications
Corporation had decided to hand over details of repeat RTI applicants to the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau for a probe into their financial backgrounds; SIC meeting on Wednesday to discuss the issue after taking suo motu notice of the developments; Commission sources say the RTI Act does not prescribe a limit on the number of applications a person can file
Inspections conducted by Kerala State Pollution Control Board have revealed that vehicles used for collection and transportation of food waste are being washed at Kochi Corporations dumping site in Brahmapuram
Kochi Corporation to survey public taps to curb water bills
Survey to identify unused and illegally installed public taps. Corporation to take steps to geo-tag and meter those currently in use
Madrasa teacher from Lakshadweep arrested for sexually assaulting 9-year-old girl on ship to Kochi
After the girl informed her mother about the incident, they alerted the ships security personnel, who detained the accused
Amicus curiae visits P&T Apartment Complex, to submit report to High Court on October 16
Kerala HC directs Social Justice Directorate to disburse pending financial aid to transgender person
Court allows petition, which sought a payment of 21,000, with an interest of 18% per annum, pending from a total payment of 36,000
Fisheries workshop begins at CIFT in Kochi
