Thiruvananthapuram, May 30 (IANS) The accused in the sensational attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials during a raid at the residence of former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan suffered a major setback on Saturday after a court rejected the bail applications of the first five persons arrested in the case.

The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, Thiruvananthapuram, dismissed the bail pleas filed by Nidhin Raj, Manoj, Jeevan, Sreejith, and Shaheen, observing that the attack on officers of a central investigating agency was a grave offence warranting serious consideration.

The accused have been booked under charges including attempted murder, obstruction of public servants in the discharge of official duties, and provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property (PDPP) Act.

The prosecution strongly opposed the bail applications, arguing that the investigation was still at a crucial preliminary stage and that granting bail could hamper the probe.

Defence counsel contended that stringent charges, particularly attempted murder, would not stand scrutiny during the course of the investigation.

The court, however, accepted the prosecution’s arguments and declined to grant relief to the accused.

In parallel, city police intensified the crackdown on those allegedly involved in the violence.

Six more accused, including former Attukal councillor Unnikrishnan, were arrested on Thursday night, bringing the total to 25.

Police sources indicated that more arrests are likely in the coming days as investigators continue to identify and track down those involved in the attack.

The City Police Commissioner said the probe was progressing rapidly and additional suspects had been placed under surveillance.

Meanwhile, as the case has assumed significant political and legal dimensions, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to ensure that the charge sheet is filed expeditiously.

The instruction is aimed at strengthening the prosecution’s case before the accused can seek relief from higher courts.

The attack on ED officials has triggered widespread debate, with the court’s refusal to grant bail marking the first major judicial setback for those arrested in the case.

–IANS

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