Thiruvananthapuram: Noted Malayalam actor and producer Maniyanpilla Raju was arrested by the Museum Police on Friday in connection with a hit-and-run accident that left two youngsters injured. The actor was later released on bail after completing the necessary legal formalities.
The Incident The accident occurred late Thursday night, around 10:00 PM, in front of the Trivandrum Club. According to police reports, a car (Registration No. KL 01 CJ 04) driven by the actor collided with a motorcycle carrying two youths. Instead of stopping to help the victims, the vehicle reportedly sped away from the scene.
The injured individuals, identified as Nivedith Krishna and Sooraj, were rushed to private hospitals. Nivedith suffered leg fractures, while Sooraj sustained injuries to his spine.
Police Investigation The Museum Police initiated an investigation after tracking the vehicle’s registration details, which were listed under the name Sudheer Kumar Raju (the actor’s official name). Although the actor’s name was not initially mentioned in the FIR, the police confirmed his involvement after he surrendered at the station on Friday morning. He was charged with dangerous driving and causing hurt by an act endangering life.
Actor’s Response Speaking to the media after his arrest, Maniyanpilla Raju admitted to the lapse but clarified the circumstances. “It is true that I didn’t stop, and that was a mistake. The bike actually hit the back of my car. Being a cancer patient, I panicked when I heard the loud noise and immediately left the spot. However, I did call a friend shortly after to inform them about the incident,” the actor stated.
After his statement was recorded and a medical examination was conducted, the actor was granted bail as the offences were bailable.
