NEW DELHI: A 65-year-old Pakistani cloth merchant has been residing at a south Mumbai police station for four months following his release from prison, whilst awaiting deportation. Nadir Munir Khan, from Karachi, occupies a room at the Mata Ramabai Ambedkar (MRA) Marg police station since October, under strict orders prohibiting him from leaving the premises.
Officials at MRA Marg police station apprehended Khan on April 11, 2024, near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, where his behaviour aroused suspicion.
Upon questioning, Khan disclosed his Pakistani nationality but lacked proper documentation and visa. Consequently, authorities arrested him under the Foreigners Act and Passport Act for unlawful entry into India, as confirmed by an official on Thursday.
Given his nationality, Khan underwent questioning by the Intelligence Bureau and R&AW (Research and Analysis Wing), alongside police interrogation.
Following prosecution for illegal residence, a local court imposed a six-month prison term. His release occurred on October 11, 2024. Post-imprisonment, Khan returned to MRA Marg police station to await deportation proceedings.
The official confirmed ongoing communication with Pakistani authorities, awaiting their response. The station provides for Khan’s daily requirements, including meals.
In his police statement, Khan revealed his journey to India through Nepal.
His account details a 2023 business visit to Kathmandu, where local traders allegedly defrauded him over leather jacket payments. During a confrontation about the unpaid goods, he reported being attacked and losing his passport and documents.
Following a fine in Nepal for overstaying, he entered India via Sonauli land port in Uttar Pradesh, subsequently travelling to New Delhi. He arrived in Mumbai in November 2023 after spending time in New Delhi.
Senior Inspector Dhanavate confirmed Khan’s Karachi residency, stating that Mumbai police’s special branch has contacted the Ministry of External Affairs regarding deportation, awaiting Pakistani authorities’ response.
The official emphasised that Khan remains under police station care until the deportation process concludes.
