A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court has framed charges against former Mumbai police officers Sachin Waze, Pradeep Sharma, and eight other accused in the 2021 Antilia bomb scare and Mansukh Hiran murder case, paving the way for a full-fledged trial.
The accused will now face trial under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including charges related to murder, as well as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). During the court proceedings, all the accused pleaded not guilty.
Court Frames Charges
The charges were framed by the special NIA court after reviewing the investigation and hearing the submissions of both sides. Since the accused denied all allegations, the case will now proceed to the trial stage, where the prosecution and defence will present their evidence before the court.
What Was the Antilia Bomb Scare?
The case dates back to February 25, 2021, when an SUV loaded with explosive material was found parked near ‘Antilia’, the Mumbai residence of industrialist Mukesh Ambani. The incident triggered a massive security response and raised concerns about the safety of one of India’s most prominent business leaders.
The vehicle was later linked to businessman Mansukh Hiran, who had reported that it had been stolen before it was found near Antilia.
Mansukh Hiran Murder Case
Days after the explosives-laden vehicle was recovered, Mansukh Hiran was found dead in a creek in neighbouring Thane on March 5, 2021. His death transformed the investigation into a suspected murder case and significantly expanded the scope of the probe.
The National Investigation Agency subsequently took over the investigation.
NIA’s Allegations
According to the NIA, former police officer Sachin Waze played a central role in the conspiracy and was allegedly involved in parking the explosives-filled SUV near Antilia.
The agency has alleged that the objective behind the plan was to create fear among wealthy individuals and allegedly extort money. Investigators also claimed that Waze intended to restore his image and influence as a prominent police officer.
The NIA further alleges that the conspiracy was linked to a larger extortion plan, though these allegations will now be examined during the trial.
Trial to Proceed Under IPC and UAPA
With charges now formally framed, the trial will move forward under multiple legal provisions, including:
- Murder-related sections of the Indian Penal Code
- Criminal conspiracy charges
- Provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
During the trial, the prosecution will present documentary evidence, witness testimonies and forensic material, while the defence will have the opportunity to challenge the allegations before the court.
What Happens Next?
The framing of charges marks the beginning of the trial rather than a finding of guilt. Since all accused have pleaded not guilty, the court will examine the evidence presented by both sides before delivering its verdict.
The Antilia bomb scare and Mansukh Hiran murder case remains one of India’s most closely watched criminal investigations, with the outcome expected to have significant legal and public interest.
