Kerala MVD directs scrapping of Akash Thillankeri’s modified Jeep

Kochi: The Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) on Wednesday informed the High Court that a modified vehicle driven by Akash Thillankeri—an accused in the Shuhaib murder case—should not be allowed on the road and be scrapped. 

MVD has also announced the cancellation of the vehicle’s registration and imposed a fine of Rs 1.05 lakh on the owner.

The vehicle in question is a 2002 model Mahindra Jeep, originally used by the Army and auctioned in 2017. It was first registered in Punjab before being re-registered in Malappuram in 2018. The Jeep’s engine, braking system, gearbox, and tyres were reportedly replaced, and significant modifications were made to the vehicle, including a reduction in seating capacity from six to three.

The MVD’s decision follows suo moto cognizance taken by the division bench of Justices Anil K. Narendran and Harisankar Menon. This action was prompted by footage circulating on social media, showing Thillankeri driving the modified Jeep. Special Government Pleader P. Santosh Kumar submitted the report to the court.

The controversy erupted when Thillankeri shared an Instagram reel featuring his journey through Panamaram, Nellarattu junction, and Aryannur nada. The video, which included film dialogues and background music, showcased the Jeep without a number plate, highlighting its illegal modifications. The footage was recorded by friends travelling in a separate vehicle.

In a related development, the High Court has also revoked the driver’s licence of Mohammad Furaiz Kilab, the private bus driver involved in an accident with students at a zebra crossing in Vadakara.