Maniyanpilla Raju Explains Why He Fled After Accident: ‘I Panicked… I'm a Cancer Survivor’

Veteran Malayalam actor Maniyanpilla Raju has been arrested following a hit-and-run accident in Thiruvananthapuram on the night of February 5, 2026. The incident, which occurred around 9:30 pm near the Trivandrum Club in Vazhuthacaud, involved Raju's car and a motorcycle carrying two young men, Sooraj, 20, and Nivedith Krishna, 20.

According to reports, Raju was exiting the Trivandrum Club and allegedly made a sudden U-turn towards Kowdiar when his car struck the motorcycle. Sooraj and Nivedith Krishna sustained injuries in the collision. Following the accident, the actor allegedly left the scene without offering assistance. This claim is supported by local security personnel and CCTV footage. The Museum police registered a case against the actor.

Maniyanpilla Raju later surrendered at the Museum police station and has since been arrested. He has offered an explanation for his actions, stating that he panicked after the accident. He claimed the motorcycle was speeding and collided with his car while he was making a slow U-turn from the club.

Adding to his explanation, Raju cited health issues as a factor in his decision to leave the scene. He revealed that he is a cancer survivor and was experiencing a moment of anxiety and fear. He said that a combination of health issues and personal circumstances led to his decision to leave the accident site.

The car involved in the accident, bearing registration number KL-01-CJ-04, is registered in the name of Sudheer Kumar Raju, which police confirmed is the actor's. CCTV footage reportedly shows the vehicle hitting the motorcycle and then driving away without stopping to help the injured.

The incident has sparked considerable attention and debate. While some criticize the actor's decision to leave the scene, others acknowledge his health condition and the possibility of a panic reaction. The police are continuing their investigation into the matter, gathering evidence and witness statements to determine the exact circumstances of the accident. The condition of the two injured youths is currently unknown. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.