'Manjummel Boys' Star Soubin Shahir Disputes Fraud Claims, Denies Arrest After Questioning

Soubin Shahir, the actor and producer known for his work in the hit film "Manjummel Boys," has publicly refuted reports of his arrest related to a financial fraud case surrounding the movie's production. Following two days of questioning by the Maradu police, Shahir addressed the media, asserting that the reports were inaccurate.

"We have the documents in our hands and the figures that are still to come. The payments are still pending. All the documents prior to this have already been submitted," Shahir stated outside the police station, expressing his faith in both the police and the court.

Arbitration Attempted

The actor, who also co-produced "Manjummel Boys," claims the complaint against him is based on inaccurate financial figures. "The figures they are quoting are wrong. All the correct figures have been submitted. We have already paid. They are the ones who filed the case. We went for arbitration — they were the ones who didn’t show up," he explained. Shahir also clarified that he has not received any further summons.

Father and Co-Producer Questioned

The investigation stems from a complaint filed by Siraj Valiyathura, who alleges that the film's producers promised him 40% of the profits in exchange for his Rs 7 crore investment. Valiyathura claims he has not received either the promised profit share or a refund of his investment. The Maradu police also questioned Soubin's father, Babu Shahir, and co-producer Shawn Antony in connection with the case.

While Shahir denies being arrested, some reports indicated that he and his co-producers were briefly detained and released on bail, thanks to anticipatory bail granted by the High Court. The court stipulated that the accused should not be questioned in custody and should be released immediately if arrested. The High Court also refused to dismiss the case or grant the police's request for custodial interrogation.

Allegations of Misleading Investors

According to the police investigation report, the accused allegedly misled the complainant by suggesting that the film's first schedule was complete before filming had actually commenced. Authorities are now pushing for a comprehensive audit of the film's revenue, given its significant commercial success.

"Manjummel Boys": A Blockbuster Hit

"Manjummel Boys," directed by Chidambaram, features a cast including Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Deepak Parambol, and others. The survival drama is inspired by a real-life incident that occurred at the Guna Caves in 2006. The film has grossed over Rs 240.5 crore worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing Malayalam film of 2024. Earlier this year, composer Ilaiyaraaja also filed a case against the producers for unauthorized use of his song "Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan".