Kerala police have arrested a total of 12 individuals in connection with the attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials that followed a raid at the residence of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The arrests include four CPI(M) activists taken into custody on Wednesday and former city corporation councillor I P Binu, who was arrested on Thursday.
Details of the Incident
The attack occurred after ED officials conducted a search at Vijayan's residence as part of an ongoing investigation. The officials were reportedly surrounded and assaulted by a group of individuals, leading to injuries. The police launched a swift investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
Arrests Made
On Wednesday, four CPI(M) activists were arrested in connection with the incident. The following day, the police arrested I P Binu, a former councillor of the Thiruvananthapuram city corporation. With these arrests, the total number of individuals taken into custody has reached 12. The police have stated that more arrests may follow as the investigation continues.
The arrested individuals have been charged with various offenses, including assault, rioting, and obstructing government officials from performing their duties. They are currently being held in police custody and are expected to be produced before a local court.
Background
The ED raid at Pinarayi Vijayan's residence was part of a probe into alleged financial irregularities. The attack on the officials has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and law enforcement agencies. The Kerala government has assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible.
The CPI(M) has distanced itself from the incident, stating that the party does not condone violence. However, opposition parties have criticized the state government for failing to ensure the safety of central agency officials.
This incident highlights the growing tensions between state authorities and central investigative agencies in Kerala. The police have urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the investigation.
