KochiJudgeHit-and-RunPolice InvestigationLegal Proceedings
Kochi Judge's 17‑Year‑Old Son Accused in Mercedes Crash; Police Search Judge's Home
Published: October 28, 2026
Kochi police searched the home of Judge Jayabalakrishnan after his 17‑year‑old son was accused of a hit‑and‑run Mercedes crash on Wednesday. Police plan to cancel the minor’s bail and hold the judge accountable under Section 199A.
Kochi police, under the direction of the Kerala High Court, raided Judge Jayabalakrishnan’s flat on Wednesday, seizing CCTV and other evidence.
Earlier that week, the judge’s 17‑year‑old son was charged with a hit‑and‑run that killed scooter rider Jayabalakrishnan on Container Road, Cheranalloor. The vehicle, registered in the judge’s name, was alleged to have been driven at excessive speed.
The case was first filed under Section 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, but after protests it was upgraded to Section 105, and the juvenile was granted bail by the Juvenile Justice Board.
Investigation reports say the minor deleted speeding videos and switched his Instagram to private, leading Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala to suspend four officers and amend the FIR to include the judge under Section 199A.
Police now plan to revoke the minor’s bail and the judge faces potential removal from the bench, while the victim’s family prepares a petition to the High Court.