Family of Kochi airport crash victim seeks answers about investigation

The family of M.P. Gopika, one of three people killed in a crash near Kochi airport, sought explanations about the investigation on October 13. At a press conference, her father M.R. Pradeep Kumar questioned several steps taken in the case.

The crash occurred early on October 11 on the airport road near Athani. A car struck a scooter carrying three young people. Devika and Iyas died alongside Gopika.

The prime accused is 19-year-old Suhail Sajeev. Kumar asked why he had been sent to the Borstal facility at Thrikkakara, which holds people aged 18 to 21, rather than an ordinary prison. The family’s question does not itself establish that the placement was unlawful.

Her father also said the initial police report did not mention alleged alcohol intoxication. The Hindu reported that the Excise department had booked bars for allegedly serving the accused alcohol shortly before the crash. The driver has not been found guilty by a court.

Kumar raised fears about possible influence by the accused’s family and sought an explanation for blood sampling after the autopsy. Allegations of interference and improper procedure have not been independently established.

According to The Hindu, the case was registered under Section 105 of India’s criminal code. The family also complained about social-media posts it believes tarnish Gopika’s reputation. The relatives’ new statement follows earlier reports of the crash and the driver’s arrest.