PANAJI
The Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), Merces, has ordered that charges be framed against three men, including land grab accused Siddiqui Suleman Khan, in connection with his dramatic escape from the Crime Branch/Special Investigation Team (Land Grab) lock-up on December 13, 2024.
In a detailed order, the CJM held that Khan, dismissed IRB Constable Amit Naik, and Hazrat Saab Bavannavar must face trial on charges of criminal conspiracy, escape from lawful custody, and harbouring a fugitive. The court ruled that the police have placed sufficient prima facie material on record to proceed with the case.
Khan had sought discharge, claiming that he never intended to escape and that he later surrendered. He told the court that he believed he was being officially taken out for investigation and therefore could not be accused of escaping. He also claimed that a police personnel had himself taken him out of the lock-up.
The court rejected these arguments, relying on CCTV footage and statements of independent witnesses, including the autorickshaw driver who transported Khan. The court said this material was sufficient to establish a prima facie case.
“Siddiqui @ Suleman Khan will face charges of criminal conspiracy and escape from lawful custody. Amit Naik, a public servant, will be charged with allowing an accused to escape and harbouring a fugitive. Hazrat Saab Bavannavar will face charges of harbouring and concealing an offender,” the court ordered, clearing the way for trial.
