Kochi, 12 Oct (H.S.): Police have detained two more occupants of the Mini Cooper involved in the Nedumbassery crash that killed three young people, widening the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Ameer and Joel were taken into custody after police found that four people, including the driver, were travelling in the car. Driver Suhail Sajeev, 19, and Ninav were arrested on Sunday. Police said Ameer and Joel fled in another car after the accident.

Investigators indicated that the passengers could face abetment charges for allegedly failing to stop Suhail from driving at excessive speed while intoxicated. Suhail told police that the car was travelling at more than 100 kmph. Scientific examinations will be conducted to establish its speed at the time of impact.

The Motor Vehicles Department has initiated proceedings to revoke his driving licence.

Police said Suhail had consumed alcohol at three bars before driving. Investigators are also examining whether he used other intoxicants and are collecting additional CCTV footage. Steps have been initiated to obtain his custody for further questioning, while the role of each passenger remains under investigation.

Meanwhile, Excise officials registered cases against Diya Regency in Kadavanthra, Monsoon Empress in Palarivattom and Marriott in Nedumbassery for allegedly serving alcohol to the teenager. Authorities said the establishments could face licence cancellation or heavy fines. The minister directed senior Excise officials to pursue action, including cases against the owners.

The accident occurred around 2 am on Sunday near Nedumbassery airport. Ijas, Gopika and Devika were travelling towards Athani on a scooter after having tea at a nearby shop when the speeding car allegedly struck them from behind.

All three died in the collision. They worked at the Sukoya craft shop in Thrikkakara and were pursuing higher studies at different institutions in Kochi alongside their part-time employment, according to the information provided.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman