Kochi: The Angamaly police have arrested George Mathew, the father of Dr Cyriac, the prime accused in the accident that claimed the life of student Jaslia in Ernakulam. He was taken into custody for allegedly helping his son remain in hiding after the incident.

Police said the accused and his family, natives of Athirampuzha in Kottayam district, had locked their house and were staying at an undisclosed location to evade arrest. The action against the father was taken after police failed to trace the accused despite issuing a lookout notice.

The incident occurred on February 28 when Jaslia was returning to her hostel after completing her part-time job. The vehicle driven allegedly by Cyriac hit her and sped away from the scene.

The car involved in the accident was later taken into police custody based on CCTV footage. Jaslia had been undergoing treatment in hospital for four days before succumbing to her injuries. After her death, her organs were donated.

Police said the arrest of the father was intended to exert maximum pressure on the accused, who is still absconding.

George Mathew was taken to the Angamaly police station following his arrest and will be produced before the court. Meanwhile, Cyriac, who remains at large, has approached the Kottayam Sessions Court seeking anticipatory bail. The plea is scheduled to be considered by the court on Friday.