Kochi: Kerala Police have intensified their search for rapper Vedan, also known as Hirandas Murali, who is absconding after being accused of rape.

A police team recently searched his residence in Thrissur. The officials stated they had gathered enough evidence to proceed with the arrest, and there are currently no legal impediments preventing it. An extensive search operation is underway to trace his whereabouts.

Meanwhile, Vedan moved the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail. In his bail plea, the rapper claims the relationship with the complainant was consensual and alleges that the accusations against him are false. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas has sought a response from the state government and adjourned the hearing to August 18.

The complainant in the case is a young woman working as a doctor. She alleged the assault happened under the pretext of marriage and involved financial dealings.

According to the complaint, between August 2021 and March 2023, the accused allegedly took the woman to five locations, including Kozhikode and Kochi, and raped her under the false promise of marriage.

Meanwhile, the team probing the complaint will collect evidence from places mentioned by the complainant. Earlier this week, the complainant’s confidential statement was recorded before a magistrate.