The Ernakulam Additional Sessions Court has strongly criticized the police for procedural lapses during the investigation in the 2015 drug bust case involving Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko.
Major shortcomings
The case, which had sparked widespread media attention, ended in an acquittal for the actor on February 11, 2025. However, the court’s verdict highlighted major shortcomings in how the police handled key aspects of the case.
Loopholes unveiled
As reported by Manorama Online, according to the verdict copy, the police failed to verify whether Shine Tom Chacko or the four others accused had consumed cocaine. No chemical analysis was conducted to separate the components of the seized substance, and a detailed follow-up examination was missing. Furthermore, the court pointed out a critical flaw in the handling of the first accused, a female model. Her body search was conducted without the presence of a female gazetted officer, which is a mandatory requirement under the law.
The seizure of narcotics from the model took place without adhering to legal protocol, significantly weakening the case. A male gazetted officer was reportedly present during the body check, which the court stated is not permissible under legal guidelines. These errors collectively led to a breakdown in the chain of evidence.
Actor responds
In a chat with Manorama News, Shine Tom Chacko said he was accused in the cocaine case because he did not influence powerful people. He also said that no investigating officer had hinted at his involvement in a recent case where a large quantity of hybrid ganja was seized from a resort in Alappuzha.
What was the case?
The incident dates back to January 30, 2015, when Shine Tom Chacko and four models were arrested from a flat in Kadavanthra, Kochi. The arrest was made following the recovery of narcotic substances from the premises.
