Waqf Property Dispute Sparks Contract Killing Plot

Six individuals, including Mujahid Alam Khan and Mahboob Alam Khan, were apprehended in Hyderabad for allegedly planning the assassination of advocate Khaja Moizuddin. The motive for the murder was rooted in protracted disputes between the families of the accused and the deceased over Waqf properties in Malakpet and Lakdikapul areas. These disputes had led to numerous pending civil, criminal, and Waqf Tribunal cases.

Mujahid Alam Khan and his father, Mahboob Alam Khan, reportedly conspired with associates to eliminate the advocate for a sum of Rs 15 lakh. The execution of the conspiracy involved intermediaries who engaged others to carry out the murder. The accused allegedly conducted surveillance on the victim for several months before the attack on May 23.

One accused, Kishan alias Pappu, was arrested in Panipat, Haryana, on May 27, where he confessed to the conspiracy. This led to the apprehension of Mujahid Alam Khan at his residence and other associates across Hyderabad. The investigation revealed that Mahboob Alam Khan allegedly aided the accused in evading arrest. Authorities seized a Scorpio vehicle, Rs 10.10 lakh in cash, and several mobile phones.

Further investigations are ongoing to apprehend remaining absconding accused and to verify the source of funds paid to the hired assassins. Police are also probing the involvement of Mahboob Alam Khan and Mujahid Alam Khan in previous cases, including murder attempts. Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar confirmed no political interference in the scientific investigation and stated that necessary security would be provided to the victim's family.