Delhi HIgh Court

Delhi HC: Bail Denied for Shop Owner in Stolen Mobile Phone Racket

Updated
Feb 8, 2026 3:08 PM
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Summary: Modassir Kazmi's request for bail before arrest was denied by the Delhi High Court on January 22, 2026. He's accused of dealing in stolen mobile phones with altered IMEI numbers.

The Accusation: Stolen Phones and Altered IMEIs

The case against Modassir Kazmi involves claims that he, along with his brother and others, was involved in selling stolen mobile phones. These phones had their IMEI numbers changed to avoid getting caught. A search at Kazmi's shop led to the recovery of these stolen phones.

Kazmi's Defense: Claims of Innocence

Kazmi's lawyer argued that he was wrongly accused just because he owned the shop. The defense claimed that Modassir Kazmi had no part in the business run by his brother, Muzammil. They also pointed out that Kazmi had no past criminal record and that since the phones were already found, arresting him wasn't necessary.

The State's Argument: Evidence and Transactions

The prosecution, represented by lawyer Mr. Raghuinder Varma, opposed the bail. They showed bank records indicating transactions over Rs. 4 crore in Kazmi's mobile business. WhatsApp messages were also shown, suggesting Kazmi's involvement in changing IMEI numbers. The prosecution argued that questioning Kazmi while in custody was needed to learn more about the operation and find any remaining stolen phones.

"Questioning him in custody is required to understand how they operated," said officer Kamal Kant.

Court's Decision: Denial of Bail

Judge Girish Kathpalia, overseeing the case, noted the need for more investigation and questioning Kazmi while in custody. The court rejected Kazmi's request for bail before arrest, pointing out inconsistencies in the defense's arguments.

"I do not find it a suitable case to grant bail before arrest," stated Judge Kathpalia.

This decision means Modassir Kazmi remains under investigation as the case continues in New Delhi.