Thiruvananthapuram, 30 May (H.S.):Kerala Police have intensified their hunt for suspects involved in the violent attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials and vehicles during a protest outside the residence of Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, registering cases against more than 200 individuals, including charges of attempt to murder.

According to police sources, preliminary investigations suggest that around 25 people were directly involved in attacking ED vehicles and personnel during the confrontation. The large-scale operation to trace and arrest the remaining accused comes amid criticism that the police security arrangements at the protest site had failed to prevent the violence.

Authorities have identified eight key suspects believed to have played leading roles in the incident and have issued lookout notices against them. Police teams have conducted searches at their residences and other suspected hideouts over the past two days.

The investigation has been expanded with multiple special teams deployed across the state capital. In addition to officers from the Museum Police Station, personnel from the Shadow Police Unit, District Anti-Narcotic Special Action Force (DANSAF), and officers from several other police stations have been pressed into service. The teams have been carrying out coordinated searches in different parts of the city and nearby districts.

So far, 18 people, including former councillor I.P. Binu, who is alleged to have played a prominent role in leading the protest that turned violent, have been arrested. Police officials said efforts were underway to apprehend the remaining suspects at the earliest.

Investigators have been conducting searches at the homes of accused persons, residences of relatives, lodges, and hotels across Thiruvananthapuram. Police have also been examining mobile phone records and other digital evidence to track the movements and communications of those involved.

Senior city police officials said the investigation is progressing rapidly and further arrests are expected in the coming days. Authorities have reiterated that those responsible for attacking central agency officials and damaging public property will be brought to justice, regardless of their political affiliations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman