Thiruvananthapuram: Actor Maniyanpilla Raju has been arrested in connection with a road accident that left two youths seriously injured near the Trivandrum Club at Vazhuthacaud on Thursday night.

According to police, the accident occurred around 9.30 pm on February 5, when a Royal Enfield motorcycle allegedly rammed the car driven by Maniyanpilla Raju. The victims have been identified as Sooraj (20) and Nivedith Krishna (20), both residents of Thiruvananthapuram.

Police said Raju later appeared before the Museum police station. Raju, who confirmed that he was driving the car, claimed that the motorcycle had rammed into his car. He said this was clearly visible in CCTV footage. He added that he did not stop the car out of fear, stating that he is a cancer patient. He also said that he had informed the police that he would come to the station in the morning. However, the police said they were unable to contact Maniyan Pilla Raju on Thursday night. The Museum police recorded his arrest, and a medical examination of the actor is currently underway.

Sooraj sustained fractures to his left leg and shoulder, while Nivedith suffered injuries to his head and legs. Both were rushed to a private hospital and are currently undergoing treatment.

Police traced the vehicle to registration number KL 01 CJ 0004. The car is registered in the name of actor Maniyanpilla Raju, whose official name is Sudheer Kumar Raju.