The Keralam Police have invoked the anti-terror Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the October 12 arson near the Kadavumbagam Synagogue in Kochi, as they investigate what officials describe as a larger conspiracy involving cryptocurrency payments and handlers based outside the state.

According to police, Ebin Paul, 32, a resident of Puthancruz in Ernakulam rural district, set fire to the boards of a horticulture nursery maintained by the synagogue’s management committee at the Ernakulam market. The investigation led police to Paul, who allegedly confessed to three other arson incidents in Ernakulam rural district.

Kochi Police Commissioner Kalirak Mahesh Kumar told the media on Friday that police had decided to invoke the UAPA against Paul. He said the investigation had pointed to the possible involvement of other people, raising questions about a wider conspiracy.

“The probe so far has revealed a larger conspiracy involving more people.…