Extortion scandal: NIA arrests Mumbai Police officer Riyaz Kazi

The National Investigation Agency on Sunday arrested Mumbai Police officer Riyaz Kazi in connection with its probe into the recovery of the explosive-laden Sports Utility Vehicle some blocks away from industrialist Mukesh Ambani's residence and the Mansukh Hiren death case.

Kazi, an associate of suspended assistant police inspector Sachin Vaze, was grilled by the NIA multiple times before he was taken into custody on Sunday and sent to the agency's remand until April 16.

CCTV footage accessed by the NIA showed Kazi at a number plate shop where Vaze allegedly procured fake number plates for the SUV found with gelatin sticks. Kazi was also reportedly seen taking away DVDs and a computer from the shop, which he allegedly dumped in the Mithi river. 

While seeking his remand, the NIA claimed that Kazi worked as an assistant police inspector in the crime intelligence unit and was well aware of the crime. 

Kazi was also aware of what transpired after the case was transferred to the NIA, the central agency contended, adding that the officer began destroying evidence linked to the case.

The agency will now confront Kazi with witness statements and seized documents.

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• Vazegate
• Sachin Vaze
• Riyaz Kazi
• NIA extortion probe
• NIA
• Antilia bomb scare
• SUV
• Mansukh Hiren case
• NIA investigation