Kochi: The Kerala High Court has granted bail to all four accused in the high-profile Mini Cooper accident case that claimed the lives of three young people in October. However, the court has directed the prime accused, Suhel Sajiv, to remain in judicial custody for another 10 days before being released. The other three accused, Ninv, Amin Shah and Jayal S Anto, have been granted bail without any additional custody period.
While hearing the case on Friday, Justice Kauser Edappagath made an important observation, stating that bail decisions cannot be influenced by public anger or social pressure. The court emphasised that judicial decisions must be based on established legal principles and the available evidence, rather than public sentiment.
The court described the incident as extremely unfortunate and acknowledged the pain caused by the deaths of three people. However, it maintained that emotional reactions to a tragic incident cannot determine whether an accused person should be granted bail.
During the hearing, the court noted that the accused had already spent nearly a month in judicial custody and had been questioned by the police on two occasions. It also observed that most of the investigation had been completed and the necessary evidence had largely been collected. In such circumstances, continued detention must be supported by sufficient legal grounds.
What Happened on October 11?
The accident took place late at night on October 11 on the Nedumbassery Airport-Athani Road in Kochi. According to the police, a speeding Mini Cooper, allegedly driven by Suhel Sajiv, crashed into a scooter carrying three people.
The victims were identified as Yas, Devika and Gopika. All three died in the accident. Devika was from Wayanad, Gopika from Palakkad, and Yas from Sullia in Karnataka. They were reportedly studying while also working part-time at an establishment.
According to the investigation, the three were returning after having tea with their colleagues when the accident occurred.
Car Was Travelling at 162 Kmph
Technical findings have emerged as an important part of the investigation. According to data obtained through a technical examination conducted by BMW, the Mini Cooper was travelling at approximately 162 kmph around five seconds before the collision. Its speed reportedly dropped to around 144 kmph at the moment of impact.
The vehicle's advanced crash safety module also indicated that the brakes were applied just one second before the collision.
Police further claimed that alcohol levels detected in Suhel's blood and urine samples were more than five times the prescribed limit. These findings form part of the evidence supporting the serious charges against him.
Why Were the Other Three Accused Arrested?
The police also registered cases against the three other occupants of the Mini Cooper. Investigators alleged that they knew Suhel was intoxicated and driving at a dangerous speed but failed to stop him. They were also accused of encouraging his driving.
However, the defence lawyers rejected these allegations and questioned the legal basis for the serious charges, arguing that the incident should be treated as a case of rash and negligent driving.
Bail Rejected Twice Earlier
Before approaching the High Court, the accused had sought bail from the Angamaly Judicial First Class Magistrate Court and the Additional Sessions Court in Ernakulam. Both courts had rejected their applications.
The investigating authorities had expressed concerns that the accused could influence witnesses or tamper with evidence if released.
The High Court's latest decision does not mean that the accused have been cleared of the charges. The trial will continue, and their individual roles and criminal liability will ultimately be determined through the judicial process.
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