Man Arrested in India for Arson at Synagogue Complex
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Indian police in Kochi arrested Abin B. Paul, 32, for allegedly setting fire to a complex near the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue. He is accused of acting on behalf of an online figure known as "Boss," who paid him to commit and document the arson. The investigation, now involving national intelligence agencies, is exploring potential links to international terrorist networks. Authorities also found drugs at Paul's residence and are examining his involvement in other criminal activities.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Abin B. Paul, 32, was arrested in Kochi, India, for allegedly torching a complex near the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue.
- Investigators believe Paul was paid by an online handler known as "Boss" to commit and record the arson.
- National intelligence agencies are investigating potential links between Paul and overseas terrorist networks, particularly those in Pakistan.
- Police discovered a significant drug stash, including fentanyl and heroin, at Paul's residence.
- Security around Jewish institutions in the area has been increased following the incident and prior threats.
Police in Kochi, India, have arrested 32-year-old Abin B. Paul on suspicion of setting fire to a complex near the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue, a significant site for the Cochin Jewish community in Kerala. Investigators believe Paul acted on behalf of an unknown handler, identified online as "Boss," who allegedly paid him, possibly in cryptocurrency, and instructed him to film the act for proof. The incident occurred early Monday morning when Paul, arriving by car, doused a plant nursery managed by the synagogue's trustee with gasoline, ignited signs within the compound, and fled. Security footage and cyber expertise led police to Paul, who was apprehended at a rented villa in Puthankuruzh. A search of his residence uncovered a stash of drugs, including fentanyl, heroin, ketamine, and oxycodone. Paul faces criminal charges, and authorities are investigating his potential involvement in drug trafficking and a prior arson at a vehicle showroom. India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other intelligence agencies have joined the probe, focusing on Paul's alleged connections to terrorist networks operating from Pakistan. His digital communications and financial transactions are under scrutiny. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Kochi, Aaron Pavithran confirmed that Paul was in contact with someone who orchestrated and paid for the arson, emphasizing the sensitive nature of the synagogue fire and the investigation into all possible motives. Security around Jewish institutions in the area has been heightened since last month due to security alerts and will remain elevated.
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