Kolkata, 22 December (H.S.) : In a significant development in the 2024 Garden Reach building collapse case, which claimed 13 lives and left several others injured, the prime accused has been traced to the United Arab Emirates, police sources said on Monday.

According to officials, Mohammad Shahnawaz, the main accused in the case, fled India after the incident and is currently believed to be hiding in the UAE while concealing his identity. The collapsed building in the Garden Reach area had been constructed on land owned by Shahnawaz.

Kolkata Police Headquarters at Lalbazar has formally informed the Kolkata Municipal Corporation after confirming the location of the accused. Senior police sources said that steps are being taken to initiate the process of bringing him back to India.

Investigators have also approached international agencies, and a Yellow Corner Notice has already been issued against Shahnawaz through Interpol to track his movements and facilitate his return.

The Garden Reach building collapse in 2024 triggered widespread outrage and raised serious questions about illegal construction and civic oversight in the area. The case remains under active investigation as authorities intensify efforts to ensure the accused is brought to justice.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh