MUMBAI: Mohammad Shariful Islam Shehzad, the main suspect in the attack on Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, has been sent to police custody until January 29 by a court in Mumbai.

On Friday, January 24,  the Bandra Holiday Court noted that there had been significant progress in the case. The court also instructed Mumbai police to further investigate other important aspects of the situation. Describing the offense as serious, the court emphasized the need to consider all the facts in the case.

"The court observed that there has been substantial progress in the case, and further investigation into other relevant factors is necessary. The offense is serious, and it should be examined by the sessions court. Such an investigation is crucial, even to verify the accused's innocence. After reviewing all the facts, the court concluded that the notice under BNSS section 35 does not apply," stated the court.

What We Know About the Saif Ali Khan Attack

Mumbai Police have requested an extension of custody for the suspect involved in the brutal stabbing of actor Saif Ali Khan, as they suspect there may be other accomplices involved in the crime. Authorities also revealed that the suspect has not provided any details about the source of the weapon used during the attack, and additional investigation is needed.

The police have emphasized the importance of conducting a facial recognition analysis using CCTV footage, which requires the suspect to remain in custody for proper examination. "We are still awaiting the shoes worn by the suspect during the incident," a police spokesperson confirmed.

A traditional cloth, known as a Gamchha, was recovered from the scene and is believed to have been used by the suspect during the attack. Investigators are also looking into the involvement of Kolkata resident Khukmoni Jahangir Sheikh, whose Aadhar card was used by the accused to obtain a SIM card in Kolkata. Authorities plan to record Sheikh’s statement as part of their ongoing inquiry.

Saif Ali Khan Provides Statement

Meanwhile, actor Saif Ali Khan, who was hospitalized after the attack at his Bandra residence, has given his statement to the police.  Saif’s wife, Kareena Kapoor, had previously given her statement to the Bandra Police.

The attack occurred when the intruder, identified as Mohd Shariful Islam Shehzad, broke into Saif’s home intending to steal. After a struggle, Saif was stabbed multiple times, including injuries to his thoracic spine, and after he was taken to the hospital, and was discharged on January 21.

Further investigation by the police revealed that the suspect had attempted to break into three other homes before reaching Saif Ali Khan’s property. Fingerprints of the suspect were found in various parts of Saif’s home, including the stairs, the toilet door, and the handle of his son Jeh’s room. These critical findings are expected to play a significant role in moving the investigation forward.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to piece together evidence in this high-profile case.