Antilia bomb scare: Bombay HC denies bail to ex-cop Pradeep Sharma

Mumbai (Maharashtra), January 23: Bombay High Court on Monday rejected the bail plea of former 'encounter specialist' of Mumbai Police Pradeep Sharma in the 'Antilia' bomb scare case.

The National Investigation Agency had also challenged Pradeep Sharma's bail petition (NIA). In June 2021, Pradeep Sharma was arrested.

The NIA had previously objected to the former police officer's bail request.

Earlier this year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) stated in Bombay High Court, while opposing the bail application of Shiv Sena leader and former Mumbai Police encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma, that he was paid Rs 45 lakhs by suspended Mumbai Police officer Sachin Waze to kill businessman Mansukh Hiren, the owner of the explosive-laden vehicle discovered outside Antilia.

The NIA mentioned Pradeep Sharma as the "main conspirator" in the Mansukh Hiren murder case in its affidavit to the Bombay High Court in May 2022.

NIA had previously stated in a charge sheet, "On March 3, 2021, accused Sachin Waze met accused Pradeep Sharma at Police Station Foundation office, Andheri (East), Mumbai during evening time and handed over a rexine bag containing a large amount of cash (bundles of Indian currency note of Rs 500 denomination). Thereafter accused Pradeep Sharma called accused Santosh Shelar to ascertain the registration number of the vehicle arranged by him. Accused Santosh Shelar conveyed the details as to accused Sachin Waze."