Dawood Ibrahim’s Nephew and Two Others Acquitted in 2019 Extortion Case

In a significant development, a Special Court in Mumbai has acquitted fugitive don Dawood Ibrahim’s nephew and two other individuals who were implicated under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) in a 2019 extortion case. Special judge B D Shelke delivered the verdict, clearing Mohammed Rizwan Shaikh Ibrahim (Kaskar), Ahmedraja Vadhariya, and Ashfaq Towelwala of charges under sections 387, 120, and relevant provisions of the MCOCA.

The case dates back to 2019 when the trio was accused of threatening a builder, who also engaged in importing electronic goods. Allegedly, the builder’s business partner owed him Rs 15 lakh, and in June 2019, he received an international call purportedly made on behalf of gangster Chhota Shakeel through gang member Fahim Machmach, advising him not to press for payment.

During the trial, the prosecution presented substantial evidence, including phone call recordings and call detail records (CDRs), arguing that there was sufficient material against all the accused. Towelwala’s confessional statement also reportedly disclosed the crime committed with the other accused.

According to the prosecution, Dawood’s nephew Rizwan and the other accused, influenced by him, threatened the builder to waive off the dues. However, the court found the evidence presented insufficient to establish their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

While Shakeel and Machmach remain wanted accused in the case, the court has instructed the police to file a separate charge sheet against them. Throughout the trial, 23 witnesses were examined, and electronic evidence was presented before the court.

The acquittal marks a significant legal victory for the defendants, highlighting the complexities involved in prosecuting cases involving organized crime and the stringent burden of proof required under the law.

 If you like this law news, share it with a friend!