A senior lawyer was killed after being hit by a speeding SUV outside his residence in Hyderabad in a case that police are investigating amid allegations of a pre-planned murder linked to sensitive legal disputes.
The victim, identified as 63-year-old advocate Khaja Moizuddin, was struck by a green-coloured Mahindra Scorpio near his home in the Masab Tank area while preparing to leave in his Toyota Innova.
According to police officials, the incident occurred when Moizuddin was placing his bag inside his vehicle and was about to enter the driver’s seat. CCTV footage of the incident, which has circulated widely, reportedly shows the Scorpio suddenly changing direction before ramming into the lawyer at high speed.
The impact threw Moizuddin nearly 15 to 20 feet away from his vehicle. Local residents rushed him to Mahavir Hospital, after which he was shifted to another medical facility for advanced treatment. He later succumbed to his injuries.
The victim’s family has strongly alleged that the incident was not accidental but a targeted attack connected to long-standing legal disputes involving alleged encroachment and privatisation of waqf properties.
His son, advocate Mohammad Farhan, claimed that Moizuddin had been actively pursuing several sensitive cases related to alleged illegal occupation of waqf land and had received threats in the past.
Farhan further alleged that his father had earlier faced attacks due to his legal work and named two individuals whom the family suspects may be linked to the incident. The family has demanded a detailed and impartial investigation.
Police said a hit-and-run case has been registered and multiple investigation teams have been formed to identify and trace the accused vehicle and its occupants.
A senior police officer confirmed that at least four special teams are examining CCTV footage, technical evidence and witness statements as part of the investigation.
The incident has triggered concern among members of the legal fraternity in Hyderabad, with several lawyers demanding swift arrests and enhanced security for advocates dealing with high-profile and sensitive cases.
The case has also intensified discussion around the safety of legal professionals involved in property disputes and politically sensitive litigation.
Police officials said all angles, including intentional homicide, are being examined during the investigation. No arrests had been officially confirmed till Friday night.
Further investigation into the case is underway.