One of Malayalam OTT’s most gripping crime thrillers is making a return—Kerala Crime Files: The Search for CPO Ambili Raju, Season 2 of the hit web series, is all set to premiere on JioHotstar.
After more than two years, fans finally have a new mystery to unravel with familiar faces like Aju Varghese and Lal reprising their roles. The trailer dropped yesterday, offering a sneak peek into a new storyline set in Thiruvananthapuram, filled with suspense, emotional depth, and power-packed performances. If you're someone who enjoys grounded police procedurals rooted in realism, this series is definitely one to watch.
Season 1: A Gritty Start to a Promising Series
Released on 23 June 2023, Kerala Crime Files was the first Malayalam web series from JioHotstar, directed by Ahammed Khabeer and written by Ashiq Aimar. The show revolved around a murder investigation in a shady lodge room, where the only clue was a fake name and address. Sub-inspector Manoj (played by Aju Varghese) and CI Kurian Avaran (played by Lal) lead a six-member police team as they work through the maze of misleading information to find the killer.
The storyline, set in 2011, won praise for its raw portrayal of police work—no glamour, no shortcuts, just hard investigation. While the series did have a few flaws in pacing and storytelling, it was widely appreciated for its cinematography, music, and authentic performances. Viewers particularly lauded Aju Varghese for stepping out of his usual comedic image and delivering a mature and restrained performance. The show managed to keep the audience engaged with a realistic setting and steady tension, even without over-the-top drama.
- OTT Platform: JioHotstar
- Release Date (Season 1): 23 June 2023
- Language: Malayalam
Season 2: The Search for CPO Ambili Raju
Now, the series returns with Kerala Crime Files Season 2 – The Search for CPO Ambili Raju, and the stakes are higher. This time, the story follows the sudden disappearance of a young policewoman, CPO Ambili Raju, under mysterious circumstances. The case not only shocks her station but also triggers a departmental shakeup—12 officers suspended by five SHOs. SI Manoj and CI Kurian return to lead the investigation, but what begins as a missing person case soon uncovers deeper issues within the system.
The trailer hints at a more intense and emotionally layered narrative. A powerful line—“Should we expect criminals to be good?”—sets the tone for the new season, questioning the very definition of morality in law enforcement. With new characters, deeper conflicts, and a more intricate storyline, Season 2 promises to be even more gripping. Unlike Season 1, which focused on solving an external crime, this time the spotlight turns inward—examining the cracks within the police force itself.
- OTT Platform: JioHotstar
- Release Date (Season 2): Trailer released in May 2025); To be released on June 20th.
- Language: Malayalam
With the trailer already sparking interest, Kerala Crime Files Season 2 is shaping up to be a must-watch for crime drama fans. Whether you're returning after enjoying the first season or jumping in fresh, this Malayalam series has all the ingredients of a solid OTT hit—strong performances, layered storytelling, and thought-provoking themes.
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