My Father Will Handle It”: Three Killed in Kochi Crash

Three people died after a Mini Cooper allegedly hit their scooter near Nedumbassery airport in Kochi, Kerala. Police are investigating suspected overspeeding and drunk driving.

Kochi Mini Cooper Crash: Three Killed, Four Arrested

Three people were killed after a speeding Mini Cooper that might have hit their scooter near Nedumbassery airport in Kochi, Kerala, at around 1:45 am on October 11. Police have arrested four people who were travelling in the car. The investigation includes suspected drunk driving, overspeeding, and alleged violations by bars that may have served alcohol to people below Kerala’s legal drinking age.

Who Were the Three Victims?
The victims were identified as Devika, 21, from Wayanad; Gopika, 21, from Palakkad; and Iyas, 21, from Karnataka. All three worked at a handicrafts company in Thrikkakara, Kochi. They had gone out for tea and were returning towards Athani when the accident occurred.

According to police, the car hit their scooter from behind, throwing all three onto the road. They were taken to nearby hospitals but later died from their injuries.


What Happened After the Crash?
The Mini Cooper was driven by 19-year-old college student Suhail Sajeev, who was reportedly travelling towards Nedumbassery airport to pick up a friend. Local residents stopped him after the crash and handed him over to police. Eyewitnesses alleged that he argued with people who confronted him. A video of the incident later circulated on social media.

Police suspect that the car was travelling at around 120 km/h or faster. Investigators are also examining reports that the group visited three bars before the accident. Sajeev reportedly admitted during a medical examination that he had consumed alcohol. Police collected blood and urine samples to check for alcohol and other intoxicating substances. A forensic examination of the car was also started.

Police Investigation and Legal Action Police registered a case under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. The investigation is ongoing. Some people allegedly attempted to assault Sajeev while he was being taken for a medical examination. Police intervened and detained one person in connection with the incident.


Why Are Three Bars Under Investigation?
Kerala’s legal drinking age is 23. Following the crash, Kerala Excise Minister M. Liju directed officials to investigate the bars that allegedly served alcohol to the group. The case has raised concerns about speeding, suspected drunk driving and road safety. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.