CBI Investigation Continues: Sameer Wankhede Questioned for Hours in Aryan Khan Case

Mumbai, 21st May 2023: Sameer Wankhede, the name that has been making headlines since the arrest of actor Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan in the Cordelia Cruise drug case, is now facing serious allegations himself. It is alleged that Wankhede demanded a whopping ransom of 25 crores from Shah Rukh Khan to secure the release of Aryan Khan.

As a result, a CBI inquiry has been initiated against him, and today marked the second day of the investigation. Wankhede underwent five hours of questioning on both Saturday and Sunday.

Amidst the anticipation of Wankhede’s response after the conclusion of the CBI interrogation, the media gathered eagerly, hoping for some answers. However, Wankhede emerged from the premises and, maintaining his silence, simply uttered two words before leaving the scene. The intrigue surrounding his case continues to captivate public attention.

On Monday, Wankhede’s writ petition is scheduled to be heard, and the CBI will present its statement regarding the investigation. The High Court, while directing Wankhede to cooperate in the probe, has ordered that he not be arrested until May 22. The court awaits the CBI’s explanation after two days of intense investigation. All eyes are on the courtroom as the proceedings unfold.

Sameer Wankhede rose to prominence following the arrest of Aryan Khan, who was apprehended aboard the Cordelia Cruise from Mumbai to Goa on October 2, 2021. Aryan Khan, along with his companions Arbaaz Merchant and Munmun Dhamecha, faced charges of drug possession.

Wankhede, as the arresting officer, held Aryan Khan in Arthur Road Jail until October 29, 2021, when the young man secured bail after 25 days.

Born and raised in Maharashtra, Sameer Wankhede is an esteemed 2008 batch IRS officer. He began his administrative service career as the Deputy Customs Commissioner at Mumbai International Airport, showcasing remarkable competence in his duties. His exceptional performance led to his assignments in Andhra Pradesh and Delhi, where he made notable contributions to the investigation of anti-narcotics cases.

Having served as an Assistant Commissioner in the Customs Department at Mumbai’s International Airport, Wankhede later worked with the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and the NIA, specializing in cases related to terrorism. In August 2020, he assumed the position of Zonal Director in the Mumbai Division of the Narcotics Control Bureau, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in combating narcotics-related crimes.