Introduction:

In a case that has garnered widespread attention, the Bandra Court in Mumbai extended the custody of Shariful Islam Shehzad, an alleged Bangladeshi national, until January 29, 2025. Shehzad is accused of trespassing into actor Saif Ali Khan’s Bandra residence on January 16, 2025, and attacking the actor with a weapon. The police presented a detailed progress report highlighting investigative developments, while the defence raised concerns about the legitimacy of the allegations and procedural lapses. The court, acknowledging the substantial progress in the investigation, decided to extend the custody to facilitate further inquiry.

Arguments of the Prosecution:

The Mumbai Police informed the court that they had seized critical evidence, including the accused’s clothes and the weapon allegedly used in the attack. However, the investigation remained incomplete, with the accused’s shoes yet to be recovered. The police further highlighted Shehzad’s lack of cooperation during the investigation, which they argued was hindering efforts to uncover the complete chain of events and establish his motives. They also suggested that the attack might have broader implications, given the circumstances surrounding the trespass.

Arguments of the Defense:

Shehzad’s counsel argued that the severity of the incident was being exaggerated, pointing out that Saif Ali Khan’s family did not call the emergency helpline or accompany him to the hospital, suggesting that the injury was minor. The defence also raised concerns about discrepancies in the case, including claims that the face of the arrested individual did not match the person seen in the CCTV footage released by the police. Additionally, the defence criticized the authorities for initially suggesting a possible terror or conspiracy angle without invoking any relevant legal provisions, asserting that the accused was being unfairly targeted.

Court’s Judgment:

After considering the submissions from both sides, the Bandra Court noted the substantial progress made by the police in linking the accused to the incident. Acknowledging the need for further investigation to recover the remaining evidence and examine the accused’s background, the court extended Shehzad’s custody until January 29, 2025. The court emphasized the seriousness of the case and the necessity of completing a thorough investigation before concluding the matter.