SIT Probes ₹70M Fraud Case Linked to Malayalam Film ‘Manjummel Boys’

Kochi: The Kerala Police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe a financial fraud case connected to the Malayalam movie Manjummel Boys. The case has attracted wide attention because it involves popular actor Soubin Shahir, his father Babu Shahir, and co-producer Shawn Antony.

The investigation comes after allegations that the trio swindled ₹70 million (approximately $8.4 million) from Siraj Valiyathura, a businessman from Aroor. According to police reports, the accused had promised profits to Siraj, who had invested the money in instalments for the production of the film.

DCP Vinod Pillai has been appointed to lead the investigation, with the SIT tasked with carefully examining all financial transactions and agreements related to the movie.

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Background of the Complaint

Siraj Valiyathura, the complainant, filed a fresh complaint with the state Director General of Police (DGP), which prompted the formation of the SIT. Earlier, in April 2024, Maradu police had registered a case against Soubin Shahir, Babu Shahir, and Shawn Antony.

Siraj alleged that despite investing ₹70 million in the film, he did not receive the profits that were promised to him. The complaint further stated that his financial contributions were ignored, and he was excluded from the final financial returns of the film.

Charges Filed Against the Accused

The case has been registered under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), reflecting the seriousness of the allegations:

• IPC Section 120B: Criminal Conspiracy

• IPC Section 34: Acts done with Common Intention

• IPC Section 406: Breach of Trust

• IPC Section 420: Cheating

• IPC Section 468: Forgery

These sections indicate that the police are treating this matter as a serious financial crime, involving both deception and misuse of trust.

Court Proceedings and Bail Restrictions

In June, the Kerala High Court granted anticipatory bail to the accused, which means they were protected from immediate arrest but under certain conditions. One key restriction was that they could not travel abroad without prior permission from the court.

Recently, the High Court rejected the producers’ request to travel abroad for a film award ceremony. The court said that allowing foreign travel could potentially impact the ongoing investigation. The decision upheld the earlier order of the Magistrate Court, emphasizing the need to prioritize the investigation over other activities.

Accusations and Defense

Siraj Valiyathura claims that despite providing substantial funds for the movie, he was denied any share of the profits. He argues that his money helped complete the production, but the producers did not honor their financial promises.

On the other hand, Soubin Shahir, Babu Shahir, and Shawn Antony have defended themselves by stating that Siraj delayed making payments at different stages, which caused interruptions in the movie’s production. They have denied any intention to cheat and argue that the delays impacted the financial outcome of the film.

Earlier, the Kerala High Court refused to quash the proceedings against them, meaning the legal process will continue, and the SIT will complete its investigation.

Impact on Soubin Shahir’s Career

Despite being involved in this legal controversy, Soubin Shahir continues to perform in films and gain recognition for his work. In particular, he has received praise for his role as the antagonist Dayal in the Tamil action movie Coolie (2025), which stars superstar actors Rajinikanth and Nagarjuna.

His performance in the film, especially in the hit song “Monica,” has made him one of the breakout stars of the movie. While the court case remains unresolved, Soubin’s film career appears to be moving forward, showing his ability to maintain his professional life amid legal challenges.

Public and Media Attention

The case has generated significant public and media attention because it involves a popular actor and a highly successful Malayalam movie. The alleged financial fraud amounting to ₹70 million is substantial, making it one of the more notable cases of its kind in Kerala’s film industry.

News outlets like Manorama News have closely followed the investigation, reporting on every development, from the formation of the SIT to the High Court’s decisions on bail and foreign travel restrictions.

Next Steps in the Investigation

The Special Investigation Team, led by DCP Vinod Pillai, is expected to examine all financial records, contracts, bank transactions, and communications between the investors and the producers. The SIT will also likely interview witnesses, including crew members, financial consultants, and anyone involved in the production of Manjummel Boys.

Once the SIT completes its investigation, it will submit a report to the state DGP, who will decide on the next steps, including potential arrests or further legal proceedings. The investigation aims to ensure justice for Siraj Valiyathura and maintain trust in film financing practices.

The Manjummel Boys case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the film industry. It shows that even in the entertainment world, financial agreements must be honored, and investors’ rights protected.

While the legal process continues, the actors and producers involved face restrictions on their personal and professional activities, including international travel. At the same time, Soubin Shahir’s career continues to receive recognition for his talent, showing that legal challenges do not necessarily end a film career.

As the SIT investigates further, the outcome of this case will have implications not only for those involved but also for the Malayalam film industry and its financial practices.