Thrikkakara morphing: One more student arrested, Kingpin from Malappuram

KOCHI: Another student from a different college was arrested for alleged involvement in the Thrikkakara morphing case.

Saneesh (20), a student of Mavelikkara IHRD College and a native of Kurattissery, Alappuzha, was arrested. This arrest confirmed that the investigation will extend to more campuses.

Saneesh is the link in the eight-member gang that includes V.S. Srihari, a second-year BBA student of Thrikkakara Bharata Mata College, who was first arrested. Srihari and Saneesh do not know each other personally. They maintained contact through social media. It has been revealed that they shared morphed images. After the incident came to light, the accused have completely deleted the Telegram groups used for the crime. Recovering information from Telegram is a challenge for the investigation team. Saneesh's phone and laptop are being examined.

S. Srihari, who was remanded in custody for three days, was questioned by a special team. The conclusion is that there is no evidence of a group working together for financial gain and that the crime was committed due to mental perversion.

A student from Malappuram, believed to be the kingpin, is absconding. The search for him has been intensified. Students from other colleges are also members of the group. Based on this, the investigation will be expanded. A special team took Saneesh into custody on Monday morning and arrested him.

“More arrests will be made in the case. Strong evidence has been received,” said Kaliraj Maheshkumar, Kochi City Police Commissioner.