The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated a probe regarding the petrol bomb attack that occurred in front of the Raj Bhavan in Chennai on 25 October 2023.
The perpetrator behind this act of terror was identified as ‘Karukka’ Vinoth who has a history of similar criminal activities and violence. ‘Karukka’ Vinoth reportedly hurled two Molotov cocktails in front of the Raj Bhavan, causing damage to the police barricade. Vinoth was arrested by the police suo moto under vandalism charges and was later slapped with the Goondas Act. This led to accusations of foul play, with Raj Bhavan posting on their official handle, insinuating that the investigation was tainted from the start.
As per police sources, the NIA invoked provisions of the Explosives Substances Act in connection with the incident.
‘Karukka’ Vinoth had previously faced accusations in several cases, including Molotov cocktail attacks on the Teynampet police station on August 12, 2015, and a TASMAC shop on July 13, 2017.
While formal intimation on the NIA registering a case is yet to be received, a senior police officer mentioned, “Based on available evidence, our investigation confirms that ‘Karukka’ Vinoth is the sole accused. CCTV footage shows he walked alone from Teynampet to Raj Bhavan with four Molotov cocktails. Upon police approach, he threw two petrol bombs—one on Sardar Patel Road and another in front of the main entrance.”
The Guindy police, acting on a complaint filed by the Head Constable present at the scene, registered a case against ‘Karukka’ Vinoth under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, along with provisions under the Explosives Substances Act and the Tamil Nadu Public Property (Prevention of Destruction and Loss) Act.
The local police have confirmed receiving an official notification from the NIA, and they are mandated to provide the national agency with comprehensive details regarding the incident.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram and WhatsApp and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.