NIA Arrests PFI Cadre Linked to Kerala Professor Palm Chopping Case

The NIA has arrested C Shafeer, a member of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI), for allegedly sheltering Savad, an accused in the Kerala professor palm chopping case. Shafeer is implicated in other violent acts for PFI. The case involves 19 convictions for various offences, including the UA(P) Act.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a cadre of the banned organisation Popular Front of India (PFI) on Friday. The accused, identified as C Shafeer, allegedly harboured Savad, a key suspect in the notorious Kerala professor palm chopping case.

According to the agency, Shafeer provided shelter to Savad after he fled following the attack on retired Professor T J Joseph in Muvattupuzha in July 2010. An NIA spokesperson disclosed that Shafeer was also allegedly involved in multiple violent acts for the PFI.

Savad was apprehended in Kannur this January after evading capture for 13 years. Described as a hit team member of the PFI, Savad was chargesheeted in January 2021. In total, 19 individuals have been convicted under various charges, including the UA(P) Act, related to the case, which underscores the violent extremism endorsed by the organisation.

(With inputs from agencies.)