Pakistani 'Boss' plotted Ernakulam synagogue attack; NIA likely to probe case

KOCHI: The enigmatic Pakistani ‘Boss ’—the mastermind behind the plot to attack the Ernakulam synagogue- even made moves to supply weapons to the accused, Ebin B. Paul (32). The ulterior motive was to attack significant and popular places across the country. The police unearthed chats on Ebin's phone regarding the procurement of these arms.

The 'Boss' also provided an online link for purchasing the weapons. A sum of Rs 10 lakh was promised for torching the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in the Ernakulam market, with an advance payment of Rs 2 lakh already made. Subsequent tasks were planned for locations including UP, Delhi, Mumbai, and Amritsar; the police suspect that the 'Boss' was arranging the weapons for these operations.

Communications found on the accused's Telegram app contain references to targets, including Jewish places of worship. A senior city police official stated that a notice would be issued to Telegram seeking information regarding 'Boss'.

There are indications that Ebin had committed a similar act before the arson attack on the car showroom in Muvattupuzha, although he has not disclosed this himself.

The police are investigating how he came into contact with 'Boss'. An investigation will also be conducted regarding the stash of drugs found at Ebin's residence.

Possibilities:

• The accused had spent some time in Canada, where he became close with extremist groups; this connection led him to the 'Boss,' and the association continued even after his return home.
• Ebin frequented banned pornographic websites; he may have been coerced into committing the crime through blackmail after being entrapped in a live video call.
• He came into contact with drug dealers while pursuing a design course in Pune; connections made via Telegram for purchasing drugs might have led him to the 'Boss.'

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is likely to take over the investigation into the arson case. This follows the confirmation of links to international terrorism and cryptocurrency funding. Ebin has already been questioned by officials from the IB, NIA, and RAW. A special team has been constituted under the leadership of Central Assistant Commissioner Sibi Tom, supervised by Deputy Police Commissioner Arun K. Pavithran.