Nithin Raj's death: Probe handed over to Crime Branch, loan app angle also under scanner

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The investigation into the death of Nithin Raj, a BDS student at a dental college in Anjarakandy, Kannur, has been handed over to the Crime Branch. The order was issued by the DGP based on the recommendation of the Kannur City Police Commissioner. The Crime Branch will now probe the family’s complaint as well as the case related to a loan app. The new probe will continue from where the police investigation left off.

Nithin Raj committed suicide on April 10 after jumping from the college building. His family alleged that he had earlier complained about mental harassment by the head of the department, M K Ram.

Two faculty members, M K Ram and Sangeetha Nambiar, have been named as accused in the case. Police have registered charges of abetment of suicide and provisions under the SC/ST Act against them. Both were suspended by the college, and Ram was later dismissed by the management.

Meanwhile, the cyber police had arrested three people linked to a loan app for allegedly threatening the teacher and Nithin Raj. The accused have been identified as Rishikesh Tiwari from Ghaziabad, Prashant Khewal (28) from Uttar Pradesh, and Prakash Jay from Faridabad. During a search at their firm, 'Instant Fund' in Noida, police seized SIM boxes and SIM cards. The Crime Branch will also investigate this angle as part of the case.