# Kochi synagogue area arson investigation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kochi-synagogue-area-arson-investigation > Updated: 2026-10-23T02:07:40.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. Following an October 12 arson attack near the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in Kochi, Kerala, police launched an investigation into suspect Ebin Paul. Paul allegedly set fire to promotional materials at a nursery near the synagogue. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to examine his electronic devices, which reportedly contained communications with individuals suspected of having foreign links and messages referencing Jewish places of worship in various Indian cities. Investigators are looking into whether Paul acted under instructions from an unidentified individual referred to as ‘Boss’ and whether he received cryptocurrency payments for the attack. The defense has claimed the accused suffers from severe mental illness. By October 23, the Kerala Police invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), specifically sections pertaining to terrorist acts and conspiracies. The investigation has expanded to determine if the attack was part of a larger conspiracy involving handlers known as ‘Boss’ and ‘Vikram,’ and whether the suspect is linked to other arson incidents in Muvattupuzha and Pune. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-23: Kerala Police invoke UAPA in synagogue arson investigation Kerala Police have invoked the UAPA against Ebin Paul following an arson attack near a Kochi synagogue, investigating potential links to an external conspiracy and unidentified handlers. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kerala-police-invoke-uapa-in-synagogue-arson-investigation ### 2026-10-14: Kochi police probe suspected terror links in synagogue-area arson Kochi police are investigating an arson attack near the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue, probing suspected foreign links, cryptocurrency payments, and a potential wider conspiracy involving an unidentified handler. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kochi-police-arrest-suspect-in-synagogue-area-arson-probe --- Cite as: Kochi synagogue area arson investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kochi-synagogue-area-arson-investigation