Kochi: Police action following a molestation complaint against director Ranjith was carried out under strict confidentiality. The investigation was handled exclusively by Kochi City Police Commissioner S. Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Aswathi Gigi. Notably, even many senior police officers were unaware of the developments until news of Ranjith’s apprehension emerged.

The complainant’s statement was recorded with utmost discretion, and the Commissioner and DCP ensured that no additional personnel were involved in the process. After a detailed statement was obtained, a preliminary inquiry confirmed that the allegations had merit.

Details of the complaint

The complaint alleges that Ranjith behaved inappropriately towards an actress on a film set in Fort Kochi approximately two months ago. There are also indications that attempts were made to settle the matter before it reached the police; however, the actress chose to proceed with a formal complaint.

Following this, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the Women’s Police Station under serious charges. Soon after, directives were received from higher authorities to arrest the director.

A special investigation team subsequently intercepted Ranjith’s car near Muttam, close to Thodupuzha, on Tuesday night. Reports suggest that he attempted to flee upon learning of the impending arrest. He was taken into custody along with Bobby Kurian and another individual who were travelling with him.

After initial procedures were completed by the Thodupuzha Police, Ranjith was handed over to Kochi City Police. He was later taken to Ernakulam General Hospital for a medical examination at around 1:00 am, where he reportedly experienced discomfort.

The case has been registered under sections relating to sexual assault and outraging the modesty of a woman. According to the complaint, the alleged incident occurred inside a caravan on a film set in Fort Kochi in January.

The complaint was submitted to the Ernakulam City Police Commissioner, following which a case was formally registered at the Ernakulam North Women’s Police Station. The actress’s statement was recorded over two days, and a special investigation team was constituted under the leadership of DCP Aswathi Gigi.