Veteran Malayalam actor and producer Maniyanpilla Raju was arrested by the Thiruvananthapuram Museum Police on Friday, February 6, 2026, in connection with a hit‑and‑run accident that left two young men seriously injured. He was later released on station bail after cooperating with investigators and undergoing a routine medical examination.
The incident took place around 9:30 p.m. on Thursday near Vazhuthacaud in the city. Raju’s car reportedly collided with a Royal Enfield motorcycle carrying Sooraj (20) from Sreekandeswaram and Nivedith Krishna (20) from Sreevaraham. Both were rushed to hospital for treatment.
CCTV footage reportedly showed Raju’s car hitting the motorcycle and continuing without stopping. Based on the evidence, police registered a case against him under relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act for rash driving, negligence, and failure to provide assistance, as well as provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Raju, 70, who has had a long and respected career in Malayalam cinema, appeared voluntarily at the police station. Speaking briefly to the media, he admitted to the accident but explained that he panicked and returned home. He cited health concerns, he is a cancer survivor currently recovering from chikungunya, and said his wife was alone at home. He added that he had requested nearby people to help the injured and insisted that he had not consumed alcohol before driving.
Authorities confirmed that Raju surrendered his vehicle and is cooperating fully with the investigation. The police are reviewing CCTV footage and witness accounts as part of ongoing inquiries.
Meanwhile, the injured youths remain hospitalized, and the case continues to draw attention due to Raju’s high public profile. The actor’s statement of panic and immediate surrender has been noted by investigators, and further proceedings will follow in accordance with the law.
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