Arson at Kochi Synagogue: Investigation Launched into Coder House Fire; Phone Reveals Possible International Terror Links

Following indications that the suspect arrested for the arson at the synagogue in Kochi has links to international terrorism, the Kochi City Police have initiated an investigation into a fire that occurred at the historic Coder House in Fort Kochi. The fire at Coder House, which took place two weeks ago, had been considered suspicious.

Telegram Chats Linked to Pakistan Found on Phone
Crucial information emerged during a preliminary examination of the mobile phone belonging to 32-year-old Ebin B. Paul, a native of Vadayambadi, Puthencruz. Telegram accounts linked to Pakistan, as well as chats in Hindi, were discovered on his device. The attacks were carried out under the instructions of an individual referred to as "Boss." His modus operandi involved setting fire to targeted locations, recording the incidents, sending the footage to his handler, and receiving payment via cryptocurrency. With the emergence of international connections, central agencies—including the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA)—have also questioned the suspect. Additionally, 105 grams of synthetic drugs were seized from his residence.

Coder House Fire Under Renewed Investigation
On the evening of September 29, a fire broke out on the upper floor of Coder House—a two-century-old heritage building in Fort Kochi. While initially assumed to be a routine accident caused by a short circuit, the police are now conducting a thorough investigation to determine if others were involved, especially in light of the recent attack on the synagogue. Given its historical ties to Kochi’s Jewish heritage and its history of hosting foreign dignitaries and VIPs, the fire at Coder House is being treated as a serious matter. Kochi City DCP Arun K. Pavithran stated that further details are expected to emerge through the interrogation of the suspect—who has been taken into police custody—and the examination of digital evidence.