UAPA sections invoked in the Kadavumbhagam synagogue arson case in Kochi

23 October 2026

Sections 16(1)(b) and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act have been invoked against Ebin Paul, the prime accused in the arson outside the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in Ernakulam, Kochi. Section 16(1)(b) covers a terrorist act that does not result in death, and Section 18 covers conspiracy, attempt, abetment and preparatory acts connected with a terrorist act. The fire occurred in the early hours of 12 October 2026 and the accused, aged 32 and from Puthencruz, was arrested the same afternoon. A special investigation team headed by Ernakulam Central Assistant Commissioner of Police Sibi Tom is handling the case, and Ernakulam Central Police filed the report before the Ernakulam Judicial First Class Magistrate Court. Kochi City Police Commissioner Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar confirmed the decision to invoke the Act.