Mumbai BMW Hit-and-Run: Mihir Shah Remanded to Judicial Custody for 14 Days
Mumbai, 16th July 2024: In Mumbai, Mihir Shah, the primary suspect in the BMW hit-and-run incident and son of a Shiv Sena politician, has been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days. The incident occurred on July 7th at 5:30 am on Anni Besant Road in Worli, resulting in the death of Kaveri Nakhwa (45) and injuries to her husband Pradip after their two-wheeler was rear-ended by Shah’s BMW.
Shah managed to evade law enforcement for three days until he was located in an apartment in Virar, approximately 65 km from Mumbai. Police were able to trace him after a friend briefly activated his phone, revealing his location.
Initially placed in police custody for seven days starting from July 10th, Shah did not provide details regarding his whereabouts or actions following the incident. He reportedly altered his appearance by shaving his beard and cutting his hair to avoid detection.
During the custody hearing, the prosecution sought an extension to further investigate individuals who harboured Shah while he was on the run. They emphasized the need to uncover details about the vehicle’s ownership and the circumstances under which Shah received shelter after the accident.
The defence argued for judicial custody, citing cooperation with the investigation, including statements from family members and the driver, which they claim align with the facts gathered. They also highlighted that police investigations had recovered clothing, recorded 27 statements, and found beer cans related to the case.
In earlier police interrogations, Shah allegedly admitted to being a habitual drinker. Additionally, the license of a Mumbai bar where Shah reportedly purchased alcohol before the incident was temporarily suspended for alleged violations.
The police emphasized the importance of recovering the missing front number plate of the vehicle, stating it as crucial evidence. They also expressed the need to understand the reasons behind Shah’s change in appearance and the roles of his father, Rajesh Shah, and their family chauffeur, Rajrishi Bidawat, who have also been implicated in the case.
According to police reports, after the initial collision, the victim was dragged nearly 1.5 kilometres, and then Shah and Bidawat allegedly switched seats before reversing the car and striking the victim again, following instructions purportedly given by Rajesh Shah to help his son flee the scene.
