Kerala Police are investigating possible international terror links after arresting a 32-year-old man for allegedly setting fire to material outside a historic Jewish synagogue in Ernakulam in the early hours of the day, as reported in NDTV.
The accused, identified as Eldo Paul, was arrested from a rented house in Puthencruz. Police suspect that the incident may be linked to a wider network, based on preliminary examination of his mobile phone chats and messages. However, the suspected terror angle and any international connections remain unconfirmed, with investigators awaiting the results of a detailed forensic examination of his electronic devices.
According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred at around 2:30 a.m. The accused allegedly poured petrol or diesel from a can and set fire to a horticultural nursery located in front of the synagogue and operated by its trust. The fire was not reported to have engulfed the synagogue itself.
Police Suspect Foreign Handlers, Cryptocurrency Payments
Investigators reportedly found communications between the accused and unidentified individuals suspected of having foreign connections, as well as activity in several online groups.
According to the investigation, police suspect that the accused may have been acting on instructions from an unidentified person whom he allegedly referred to as his “Boss”. Investigators are examining the possibility that the arrangement involved identifying targets, carrying out attacks, recording videos and sending the footage to the alleged handler in exchange for money.
Police are also examining indications that payments may have been made through cryptocurrency. The identities of the suspected handlers, the origin of the communications and the alleged financial transactions have not yet been independently established.
Officials are investigating whether the accused acted alone or was part of an organised network. Police have cautioned that the suspected international terror connection is still at the preliminary stage and that further evidence is required to establish the nature of the alleged links.
Investigation Linked To Earlier Arson Incident
Investigators have also reportedly found a suspected connection between Eldo Paul and an earlier arson incident in Muvattupuzha. Videos recovered from his mobile phone allegedly appear to be linked to that incident, and police sources said he admitted during questioning to involvement in the earlier case.
Police are comparing evidence from both incidents to determine whether they were connected or formed part of a coordinated operation.
Investigators also reportedly found suspicious communications relating to alleged drug transactions. The information has been shared with Ernakulam Rural Police for further investigation.
CCTV Footage And Digital Evidence Under Examination
The investigation reportedly faced an initial challenge because CCTV cameras at several establishments in Ernakulam Market were switched off during the night. Police examined available footage from surrounding areas and questioned approximately 150 people.
Although the vehicle’s registration number was not clearly visible in the footage, investigators used technical analysis and other leads to identify a blue Maruti Suzuki Ignis allegedly used in connection with the incident. The investigation subsequently led police to the rented house in Puthencruz, where Eldo Paul was arrested. Police said he had attempted to hide inside the house after becoming aware of their presence.
A detailed forensic examination of his mobile phone and other digital devices is now under way to trace the communications, identify possible handlers and verify suspected financial transactions. Central agencies are also reportedly examining information related to the case, according to Kochi City Police.
A special investigation team has been constituted under Ernakulam Central Assistant Commissioner Sibi Tom, with Kochi City Deputy Commissioner of Police Arun K Pavithran supervising the investigation. The team is being led by Ernakulam Central Police Inspector Aneesh Joy.
The Kerala State Police Chief and the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) have reportedly commended the Kochi City Police team for the swift arrest and recovery of digital evidence.
Police are continuing to investigate the motive behind the alleged arson, the possible links to the Muvattupuzha incident and whether any wider conspiracy was involved. The suspected international connections and terror angle have yet to be established.
VIDEO: THE EXACT MOMENT WHEN ANTI-JEW HATE WAS ALIGHT IN KERALAM.
‘BOSS’ BEHIND KOCHI SYNAGOGUE ARSON?
A suspected international terror link is under investigation after a 32-year-old man was arrested for setting fire to material near a historic Jewish synagogue in Ernakulam.
Reports allege a Telegram-linked handler known as ‘Boss’ directed the accused, with four cities allegedly on the radar for future attacks.
Pakistan link, crypto payments & wider terror plot under scrutiny.
In Keralam political groups have given Hamas “terrorists” a platform.
— Rahul Shivshankar (@RShivshankar) October 14, 2026
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