Antilia bomb scare case: NIA arrests controversial Mumbai cop Sachin Vaze

Bengaluru: Mumbai cop Sachin Vaze, known for his controversies, was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) last (Saturday) night. He was arrested in connection with the Antilia bomb scare case. 

AS per NIA, he was arrested under Sections 286, 465, 473, 506(2), 120 B of the IPC, and 4(a)(b)(I)Explosive Substances Act 1908 for his alleged role & involvement in an explosives-laden vehicle being placed near Mukesh Ambani's house in Mumbai on February 25. It is to be noted that Vaze was present at the NIA office for over 12 hours to record his statement in relation to the case before he was arrested. 

Sensing arrest, Vaze had approached the Thane Sessions Court seeking anticipatory bail in the alleged murder case of Mansukh Hiren and the Antilia bomb scare probe. But the court refused to grant Vaze any interim protection against arrest, with the judge noting that Mansukh Hiren's wife had named the Mumbai Police officer in the FIR and that there was prima facie evidence against Vaze and hence custodial interrogation was required. 

It is to be noted that Mansukh Hiren was the owner of the SUV in question and had been found dead under mysterious circumstances on March 5.

Much before this, a few days ago, Sachin had been transferred out of Mumbai’s Crime branch following the allegations. 

“A case has been registered in the Mansukh Hiren death case by Maharashtra ATS, and ATS professionally investigating the entire matter. Opposition leaders of Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad, we have requested them, if they have any proof then hand over to Maharashtra ATS. Strict action will be initiated against the culprit. No one will be spared. With the demand of suspension and arrest of Sachin Vaze by the opposition leaders, we have transferred Sachin Vaze from his current office," Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh had said on Wednesday.

• Mumbai
• Sachin Vaze
• Antilia bomb scare