An auto-rickshaw driver and his accomplice allegedly kidnapped a 32-year-old ‘mentally ill’ Vasai resident and beat him to death, after claiming that he stole their phone. The deceased’s family has denied the allegation. Police identified the deceased as Pradeep Mejiyatar. His elder sister Romila Shah told mid-day that he “had been mentally unwell since his wife left him about 10 years ago.” Pradeep, who was fondly called Shah Rukh in his area, lived with his mother Bhikhiben Pannalal Mejiyatar, 63, and his siblings in Vasai West.

The auto that accused Omkar Pawar was driving on the day of the alleged murder of (left) Pradeep Mejiyatar. Pics/Hanif Patel