Vlogger ‘Thoppi’ arrested from Kochi

Malappuram: Vlogger Mohammad Nihad (26), popularly known by his vlogging name ‘Thoppi’ has been taken into custody by the Valanchery police following a case involving his inappropriate behaviour and use of foul language during the inaugural of a shop in Valanchery. He was later released on default bail.

Nihad was apprehended at his friend's residence in Ernakulam on Thursday night. The lock of the room where Nihad was present was reportedly got jammed. Eventually, Nihad handed over the key to the officers through the lower part of the door. Despite their attempts, the door could not be opened with the key, prompting the police to forcefully kick it open. The entire incident, including the exit from the room, was streamed live by the vlogger.

During the live video, Nihad claimed that he was targeted with a fabricated case to divert attention from other political matters. He believed the situation was exaggerated unnecessarily. Nihad in the live-streamed video claimed he informed police that he would attend the police station the following day. He accused the police of arresting him solely to create news headlines.

Following his arrest, Nihad will be produced in Valanchery court. The police confiscated a hard disk, a computer, and two mobile phones as part of the investigation.

Previously, a case was filed by the Valanchery police against Mohammad Nihal and the shop owner, Zainul Abid, who had invited him to the inauguration event. Nihad was invited to inaugurate a shop named 'Pepe' located in Karinkallathani on the national highway.

The charges against Nihad and Abid include traffic obstruction on the national highway and vulgar chants and songs in front of the gathered crowd. A complaint was lodged by Saifuddin Padath, a local philanthropist. The inauguration was at 11 am on June 17. A large number of teenagers had gathered, causing significant traffic congestion. 

Residents and travellers complained about the prolonged road blockage. Additionally, Murshidul Haq, a district executive member of AIYF also lodged a complaint at the Valanchery police station regarding the same incident.