Ninth Suspect Arrested in Goa Mosque Murder Case
Margao: In a significant breakthrough, police have arrested Altaf Shah Syed, a key suspect wanted in connection with the murder of Ali Kalandar Khanzade, vice-president of Sunni Gulistan Masjid at Gogal, Margao. The arrest was made on Tuesday at Bengaluru airport as Syed arrived from Dubai, marking him as the ninth person apprehended in this high-profile case.
Police Investigation Intensifies
Fatorda Police Inspector Ditendra Naik confirmed that a specialized team has been dispatched to Bengaluru to bring Altaf Shah Syed back to Goa for further interrogation and legal proceedings. The murder, which occurred on January 30 shortly after Friday prayers, has been described by authorities as stemming from a violent dispute over control of the mosque committee. Khanzade was fatally stabbed in the stomach during the altercation, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Previous Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Prior to Syed's arrest, police had already taken eight other individuals into custody in connection with the murder. The arrested persons include:
- Akram Khan (identified as the prime accused)
- Alam Syed
- Latif Syed
- Ubedullah Makandar
- Sakruddin Sheikh
- Husein Khan
- Nizamuddin Syed
- Sahil Kanvi alias Sparky
All suspects have been booked under sections 103(2), 61, 351, and 190 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Currently, Akram Khan and Sahil Kanvi remain in judicial custody, while the other six have been granted bail. The court has also rejected anticipatory bail applications filed by Sarfaraz and Mehboob Makandar, indicating the seriousness with which the judiciary is treating this case.
International Escape and Capture
Police sources revealed that Altaf Shah Syed fled to Dubai just two days before the murder occurred, suggesting premeditation and possible advance knowledge of the planned violence. His arrest upon returning to India demonstrates coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies across international borders. The case highlights ongoing tensions within religious institutions and the sometimes violent consequences of internal power struggles.
The investigation continues as authorities work to establish the complete chain of events and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved in or had knowledge of the murder plot.
