Mumbai: Businessman Arshad Khan Arrested in Connection With Fatal Hoarding Collapse
Mumbai, 31st December 2024: Arshad Khan, a businessman from Govandi, has been arrested by the Crime Branch in connection with the hoarding collapse tragedy that led to the deaths of 17 people. Khan was accused of receiving ₹46 lakh from Ego Media Private Limited, the company responsible for the fatal hoarding.
Khan had reportedly taken over ₹1 crore from Ego Media directors Bhavesh Bhinde and Janhavi Marathe to facilitate the approval of the ill-fated hoarding. He had been on the run since his involvement surfaced in July this year, following the rejection of his anticipatory bail.
Authorities allege that Khan has connections with former GRP Chief Quaiser Khalid and Bhavesh Bhinde. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the financial transactions linked to Ego Media’s bank accounts found that the company had transferred ₹46.5 lakh in 39 separate transactions across 10 different bank accounts between 2021 and 2022, which was eventually received by Khan.
Khan, however, claims that the funds were payments for branded goods and spectacles supplied to Bhinde. The money was also allegedly transferred to Khan’s two relatives, who have not yet provided any explanation regarding these transactions.
The incident occurred on May 13, when a massive hoarding measuring 120 by 140 feet, owned by Ego Media, collapsed due to strong winds on the GRP ground. The collapse resulted in the deaths of at least 17 people and injuries to more than 70 others. So far, four individuals, including Bhavesh Bhinde, Janhavi Marathe, Sagar Patil, and Manoj Sanghu, have been arrested in connection with the incident.
