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- By Ridhi Suri
- Wed, 25 Sep 2024 12:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Malayalam Actor Siddique has gone missing following the rejection of his anticipatory bail plea by the Kerala High Court in a sexual assault case involving an actress. In response, authorities have initiated a search operation to locate him. Police have also issued a lookout notice at airports, fearing he might attempt to leave the country. Officials have stated that there are no legal barriers preventing his arrest and are intensifying efforts to track down his location.
The High Court's decision came after investigators presented compelling new evidence and witness testimonies, placing Siddique in a more precarious position in the sexual assault case. The court, led by Justice CS Dias, expressed discontent with Siddique's defense, affirming its confidence in the complainant's statements, which were supported by substantial evidence.
Siddique Goes Missing
The situation has raised concerns within the film industry, as Siddique's disappearance adds further complexity to the ongoing investigation. Reportedly, the Crime Branch chief has instructed Kochi police to apprehend actor Siddique without delay. His two residences in Kochi are under surveillance, yet there’s been no sign of him.
Reports from Manorama News indicate that Siddique has turned off his mobile phones, leading authorities to believe he may be in hiding. Notably, his son was seen visiting the legal firm Raman Pillai Associates, hinting at an impending petition to the Supreme Court. While his Aluva house remains locked, his Padamughal residence is closely monitored by police. Reports also state that his phone last pinged in Palarivattom.
Meanwhile, in Siddique's defence, headed by senior advocate B. Raman Pillai, contended that the allegations were fabricated, emphasising that the initial complaints did not mention rape. Siddique has consistently denied the charges, labeling them as a scripted narrative. However, the court found his arguments unconvincing, particularly after the public prosecutor presented evidence showing that Siddique and the complainant were at the Mascot Hotel in 2012, the same year the incident allegedly took place.