Nagpur: Fahim Khan, the alleged mastermind of the Mahal riots that erupted on March 17, 2025, was arrested on Thursday after his name surfaced in connection with a murder that occurred during the violence. Two minors linked to the murder had been apprehended and sent to a government shelter home just two days prior.
Details of the Murder Case
The victim, 38-year-old welder Irafan Shafiq Ahmed Ansari, a resident of Bande Garib Nawaz Nagar, was attacked while en route to Itwari railway station during the riots. He succumbed to his injuries at Mayo Hospital six days later. The murder case was registered at Tehsil police station. Initially handled by the Crime Branch, the investigation was transferred to the police station after the charge sheet was filed.
Arrests and Investigation
Eight individuals have already been arrested in the case. Fahim Khan's alleged involvement came to light after a thorough review of the case file by Zonal DCP Rahul Madhni, under the guidance of Joint CP Navinchandra Reddy and CP Ravinder Singal. Sources indicate that Khan went underground after his name emerged in the case. Senior officers launched search operations to trace him. On Thursday, he was summoned to Tehsil police station, where he was taken into custody after being informed of the grounds for arrest. He will be produced before the court on Friday, police confirmed.
Significance of the Arrest
Police sources termed Khan's arrest as a significant breakthrough in the murder investigation. Top police officials stated that the probe is progressing on multiple fronts and further arrests cannot be ruled out.
Background of the Riots
The March 17, 2025, riots at Mahal in Central Nagpur had created considerable tension in the city. Khan's name figured prominently in police investigations related to the violence. He was granted bail in the riots case in July last year. Khan's wife, Alisha, was elected corporator from the Yashodhara Nagar area in January this year, while Khan has emerged as a prominent leader of a minority community organization.
