Kerala train arson case: 'Accused a radical extremist, always watched Zakir Naik's video', claims ADGP

The ADGP claimed that the accused arrived in Kerala with the intention of committing violence.  

Kozhikode: Kerala Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) M R Ajith Kumar on Monday informed that Shahrukh Saifi, the accused in the train arson case, is a radicalised extremist. Saifi has been determined to be the perpetrator of the crime.

The ADGP also said that Shahrukh Saifi watched the videos of controversial Islamic preachers Zakir Nail, Israr Ahmed and others.  He claimed that the accused arrived in Kerala with the intention of committing violence.

Speaking to the media about the case's developments, Kumar stated that various state police forces and central agencies worked together to undertake thorough investigations in other states as well. Based on the information gathered, the accused was subjected to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act (UAPA), last day.

The accused, according to the ADGP, is 27 years old and attended the National Open School up through Class 12. He further indicated that it is being looked into if the accused received assistance.

Kumar said, " The police investigation has been scientific so far. All of the proof has been collected with respect to the crime. There is a need for a thorough investigation. Whether the accused has ties to any organization is still unknown."

With the addition of the UAPA, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) will probably take over the probe. A report was submitted before Additional Sessions Court on Sunday by the Kerala police. 

Shahrukh Saifi was earlier charged with IPC 302 (murder), following the death of three people, IPC 307 (Attempt to murder), IPC 326 A, IPC 436, and Indian Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act section 151.

The accused who entered the D1 coach of the Alappuzha-Kannur Executive Express train, set fire to some passengers leading to the death of three persons, including a two-year-old child, on the night of April 2. Nine people suffered burn injuries in the appalling incident. Following an intelligence input, the accused was arrested within four days of the attack from a hospital in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra.

According to the preliminary report of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Shahrukh's contacts in Delhi and Noida has to be investigated to check for any links with radical outfits. The NIA assessment also suggests further investigation is necessary as it appears that the attack was premeditated after closer inspection.