Manjummel Boys Financial Fraud Case: Actor And Producer Soubin Shahir Arrested And Released On Bail

Manjummel Boys Financial Fraud Case: Actor and filmmaker Soubin Shahir was arrested and later released by the Maradu Police in Kerala in connection with a financial fraud case related to the Malayalam hit Manjummel Boys. The case is reportedly based on a complaint filed by Siraj Valiyathura, a resident of Aroor, who alleged that the producers cheated him of over ₹7 crore after promising a 40 percent share of the film's profits.

According to an Asianet News report, Soubin was questioned by police yesterday and today in connection with his role in the alleged financial irregularities. His father and producer, Babu Shahir, along with associate Shawn Antony, were also interrogated in the case. Their arrests were officially recorded, and they were later released on station bail, as per a pre-existing High Court directive that mandated bail upon arrest.

The High Court had earlier rejected a plea from the producers seeking to quash the case and also declined the police's request for custodial interrogation of the accused, Asianet News reported.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Soubin said he was willing to pay the complainant's share of the profits and that he had already set aside the necessary funds. He stated that the principal amount taken from the complainant had been returned and claimed the case was filed just as the profit-sharing payment was about to be made.

Police have reportedly submitted a preliminary report to the court, which suggests lapses in financial handling by Parava Films, the production company co-founded by Soubin Shahir. The report hints at potential mismanagement or failure to meet agreed financial terms, though the investigation remains ongoing.

Meanwhile, Asianet News also reported that Kochi Police are planning to summon Soubin Shahir again for further questioning. Investigators told the outlet that the documents submitted by Soubin were incomplete and that crucial bank transaction details are still awaited.

The case has garnered attention not only because of the individuals involved but also due to the film's commercial success. Manjummel Boys, in which Soubin Shahir played a key role both on and off screen, broke several box office records and became the highest-grossing Malayalam film to date.

Soubin Shahir Balances Career Amid Ongoing Case

While the legal process continues, Soubin remains professionally active. He is part of the upcoming Rajinikanth-starrer Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, and was recently seen in Machante Maalakha, Pravinkoodu Shappu, and Nadikar.

Soubin Shahir, who began his career as an assistant director in 2003, has since evolved into one of Malayalam cinema's most recognizable faces, gaining prominence through films like Premam, Kumbalangi Nights, and Sudani from Nigeria. He co-founded Parava Films, which has produced several successful projects, including Manjummel Boys.