Kochi, Kerala: Police are investigating a suspected paid arson attack near the Kadavubhagam Synagogue in Kochi on October 12, after arresting a man allegedly involved in the incident. Deputy Commissioner of Police Arun K Pavithran said the accused was reportedly in contact with another person who had been directing him to carry out such acts.

According to the DCP, the accused was paid to carry out the latest incident. Investigators are examining this aspect as they work to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.

CCTV Footage Helped Police Identify Suspect

DCP Arun K Pavithran said police examined available CCTV footage and found a clue linking the vehicle involved to a person from the Kothamangalam area.

The police subsequently coordinated with the local police team and compared footage from an incident in Muvattupuzha with the recordings from Kochi. The comparison helped investigators identify the same person as being involved in both incidents, according to the officer.

Police then took the suspect into custody from his residence. Pavithran said the accused confessed to the act.

Digital Forensic Examination Underway

Investigators are now examining the accused's electronic devices to retrieve data that could provide further information about the incident and his alleged contact with another person.

Pavithran said more details would be shared after the forensic examination is completed and the data is recovered.

The investigation is also examining the claim that the accused received payment for carrying out the October 12 incident.

Police Yet to Establish Link to Larger Organisation

The DCP said police had not found information establishing whether the accused was part of a larger organisation.

He added that investigators would need more time to examine all aspects of the case, including the alleged involvement of another person and any possible connections between the incidents in Kochi and Muvattupuzha.

The investigation remains ongoing as police await forensic findings and work to establish the full circumstances of the arson attack near the Kadavubhagam Synagogue.