The Kerala High Court has dismissed a petition filed by actor Soubin Shahir and co-producer Shawn Antony, both accused in a financial fraud case related to the hit Malayalam film Manjummel Boys, seeking permission to travel abroad. Justice V.G. Arun rejected the plea after considering the police report and other documents, upholding an earlier decision by the Magistrate Court that denied them travel relaxation.

The court had earlier granted the accused conditional bail, clearly stating that foreign travel would require prior court approval. Soubin and Shawn had approached the High Court after the Magistrate Court turned down their initial application to modify the bail conditions.

The case was filed following a complaint from Siraj Valiyathura, a resident of Maradu, who alleged that he was denied his share of the profits from the blockbuster film. According to the complaint, Siraj had invested in the production but was excluded from financial returns. In contrast, the accused argued that Siraj failed to transfer funds on time, leading to disruptions and extended production timelines.

Co-producer Babu Shahir is also named as an accused in the case. The High Court had earlier refused to quash the proceedings against the trio.

Earlier rejection by Magistrate Court

Soubin Shahir had initially requested permission to travel to Dubai to attend an awards ceremony. However, the Magistrate Court rejected this request, maintaining that allowing international travel could potentially affect the ongoing investigation. The foreign travel ban remains part of the bail conditions imposed on all the accused in the case.

Despite the ongoing legal issues, Soubin Shahir is currently enjoying widespread critical acclaim for his role in the recently released Tamil action film Coolie (2025). Playing the antagonist Dayal, Soubin has been hailed as the film's breakout star, even in a cast that includes industry heavyweights like Rajinikanth and Nagarjuna.

His energetic performance in the hit track "Monica" and his nuanced portrayal of the villain have earned him both critical and audience appreciation.