Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 28: In a major breakthrough, Mumbai police have arrested Mumtaz Irfan Khan, 52, for allegedly murdering her relative, 65-year-old Shehnaz Kazi, at her Ghatkopar residence.

According to authorities, Shehnaz had been living alone since her husband’s death in 2018. She did not have children, but her husband’s family, including stepson Irfan Khan, had been jointly raising seven children. Following Irfan Khan’s death, Mumtaz reportedly feared she would not receive a share of Shehnaz’s property.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone VII, Rakesh Ola, said, “Mumtaz had heard discussions about inheriting Shehnaz’s property. Shehnaz had three properties, including the Ghatkopar flat where she lived.”

Police investigation revealed that Mumtaz visited Shehnaz on Tuesday demanding money or property. When refused, she allegedly pushed Shehnaz in anger, causing her to hit her head on the wall, and then throttled her with a rope. She reportedly took some cash before fleeing.

The crime came to light after neighbours checked on Shehnaz following concerns from her siblings. CCTV footage showed a woman in a burqa leaving the building and taking multiple autorickshaws to avoid detection. The police traced the route, questioned a relative in Kurla, and confirmed Mumtaz’s involvement.

Police suspect insider knowledge played a role as Shehnaz rarely allowed strangers into her home. The accused remains in custody as further investigation continues.