Kochi, October 13, 2026: The fatal Mini Cooper crash near Kochi airport has sparked widespread outrage in Kerala, with investigators examining the accused driver’s social-media videos as potential evidence of alleged reckless driving. Nineteen-year-old college student Suhail Sajeev has been arrested in connection with the accident, which claimed the lives of three 21-year-old students. Reports also indicate that three additional people have been named as accused as the investigation widens.
Three Students Killed Near Kochi Airport
The accident occurred near Nedumbassery, close to Kochi airport, when a Mini Cooper allegedly travelling at high speed struck a scooter carrying three people.
The victims were identified as Iyas from Karnataka, Devika from Wayanad and Gopika from Palakkad. All three were 21 years old, studying in college and working part-time at a showroom near the airport.
The deaths have prompted calls for strict action and renewed attention to road safety.
Suhail Sajeev Arrested in Connection With Crash
Police arrested Suhail Sajeev and booked him under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
Investigators have alleged that Sajeev was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. The allegations remain subject to the ongoing investigation and judicial proceedings.
Mini Cooper Allegedly Travelling at 125 kmph
According to investigators, the car was allegedly travelling at approximately 125 kmph when it collided with the scooter.
The impact reportedly threw the victims from the two-wheeler, with the scooter and riders allegedly being dragged for more than 100 metres. Investigators are examining the circumstances of the collision and collecting evidence to establish the sequence of events.
Viral Instagram Reels Become Part of Investigation
Sajeev’s old Instagram reels have emerged as a significant focus of the investigation. Police are examining videos that allegedly show him driving at high speeds to determine whether they provide evidence of earlier dangerous-driving behaviour.
However, the authenticity and context of individual clips must be established before they can be treated as evidence. Some videos circulating online have not been independently verified by media outlets.
Earlier Speed of 218 kmph Allegedly Recorded
Police have reportedly said that Sajeev had previously been recorded driving at speeds of up to 218 kmph.
Investigators are examining whether the footage can help establish a pattern of alleged reckless driving before the fatal collision. Any conclusions will depend on the verification of the recordings and other supporting evidence.
Birthday-Gift Video Draws Public Attention
A separate video showing Sajeev’s mother presenting him with the Mini Cooper as a birthday gift has also circulated widely on social media following the accident.
The resurfaced clip has fuelled online discussion about the case. However, the circumstances surrounding the gift do not, by themselves, establish responsibility for the crash.
CCTV Footage Collected From Bars
Police have reportedly collected CCTV footage from establishments where Sajeev allegedly consumed alcohol before the accident.
Investigators are examining the recordings alongside other evidence to reconstruct his movements before the collision and establish the circumstances in which he began driving.
Excise Authorities Act Against Three Bars
Kerala Excise authorities have initiated action involving three bars linked to the investigation after Sajeev allegedly told police that he had consumed alcohol at the establishments.
The legal drinking age in Kerala is 23. Authorities are examining whether the establishments violated applicable rules by serving alcohol to a person below that age.
Three Additional People Reportedly Named as Accused
As the investigation expands, reports indicate that three more people have been named as accused in connection with the case.
Their alleged roles and the specific charges involved require further clarification from investigators. Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash and any possible responsibility beyond the driver.
Victims’ Families Seek Strict Punishment
The victims’ families have called for stringent action and questioned whether the charges initially invoked adequately reflect the seriousness of the incident.
They have pointed to the allegations of alcohol consumption, excessive speed and potentially dangerous driving before the crash while demanding accountability. The final determination of criminal liability will rest on the evidence and the judicial process.
Fatal Crash Renews Road-Safety Debate
The incident has reignited public debate over drunk driving, speeding, enforcement of restrictions on alcohol sales and the promotion of dangerous driving through social-media content.
Police are continuing to gather digital records, CCTV footage and other forensic evidence. The investigation will be crucial in determining the sequence of events, verifying the allegations and establishing the responsibility of those involved.
Source: The Indian Express, PTI, Udayavani
Supreme News Network
