Actor Nivin Pauly has been served a police notice to appear for questioning in a cheating case, along with director Abrid Shine. The notice, issued by the Thalayolaparambu police, instructs both to present themselves at the station for interrogation. Their statements will be formally recorded as part of the ongoing investigation. The action follows a complaint filed by film producer P S Shamnas, who has accused the duo of financial fraud in connection with their upcoming film Action Hero Biju 2. As per the notice, Nivin and Abrid have also been directed to submit supporting documents and bank account details related to the disputed transactions.
The case, registered earlier this month, stems from allegations that the actor and director fraudulently collected approximately Rs 1.9 crore from Shamnas under the pretext of offering him a production partnership in the second instalment of Action Hero Biju. The complaint also claims that the overseas rights of the film were later sold without disclosing the agreement with Shamnas’ production company, Indian Movie Makers, resulting in a significant financial loss.
Shamnas, who had previously co-produced the 2022 film Mahaveeryar, directed by Abrid and starring Nivin, further alleges that he is still owed Rs 95 lakh related to that film's production. He claims the promised partnership in Action Hero Biju 2 was extended as a settlement offer after Mahaveeryar underperformed commercially.
A case was registered by the Thalayolaparambu police on July 16 against the actor and director. According to the station, the charges include Section 175(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Additionally, they have been booked under Sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating), and 34 (acts done with common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Earlier, Nivin publicly clarified through social media that the issue is currently undergoing court-monitored arbitration and has been subject to a gag order since June 28.
Action Hero Biju 2, announced in February 2024, was expected to reunite the actor-director duo following the success of the original film in 2016. However, production has seen little movement in recent months, with both parties now entangled in legal proceedings.
