Police Intensify Probe into Sexual Assault at Kerala Bus Station; Suspect Flees to Tamil Nadu

The Thiruvananthapuram Rural police in Kerala have intensified their investigation into a sexual assault case that occurred at the Kattakada KSRTC bus station on May 9, 2026. The primary suspect, identified as Shibu and known by the alias 'Bruce Lee,' is currently at large and is believed to have fled to the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. Investigators revealed that the suspect had arrived in Kattakada to sell ganja (marijuana), prompting authorities to widen the probe by questioning individuals suspected of regularly purchasing contraband from him. The victim is reported to be a mentally challenged woman, and her statement was recorded with the assistance of a psychiatrist to ensure proper legal and medical protocol. In response to the incident, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has launched an internal inquiry to address allegations regarding the leak of CCTV footage capturing the assault from the depot. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety at public transport hubs and the handling of sensitive evidence in criminal investigations involving vulnerable victims.