Minister Saji Cherian’s official vehicle meets with accident; minister suspects foul play

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The official vehicle of Minister Saji Cherian met with an accident in Vamanapuram in Thiruvananthapuram district on Wednesday morning. The accident occurred at around 8.30 am when the tyre of the minister's state car came off. The minister and his staff escaped without any injuries.

The minister was travelling from Chengannur to Thiruvananthapuram when the incident took place in front of the Vamanapuram Primary Health Centre. The rear wheel of the Innova Crysta came off, causing the vehicle to lose control and come to a halt. The minister later continued his journey in the vehicle of Vamanapuram MLA D K Murali.

Speaking to a television channel, the minister said he suspected foul play in the incident. He pointed out that although the tyre had come off, all the bolts were still intact. He said it was highly unusual for a tyre to come off in this manner, especially since the vehicle had been serviced just three days ago.

"I am fortunate to have escaped a major accident. As it is an official vehicle, it was parked at the Chengannur guest house. There was a power outage at the guest house for about half an hour early yesterday morning. I suspect something may have happened during that time. The CCTV footage would be examined. The police have been asked to investigate the incident," the minister said. Police have launched an investigation into the matter.