Mumbai, Maharashtra | September 28, 2025 –
A shocking incident at the Arthur Road Jail has left a senior prison officer, Rakesh Chavan, seriously injured after he tried to intervene in a fight between inmates. The clash, which took place inside the high-security prison, has once again raised concerns over safety measures and rising gang rivalries among inmates.
According to officials, the incident began when inmate Affan Saifuddin Khan started fighting with two to three other prisoners in his barrack. When officer Rakesh Chavan attempted to break up the altercation, Affan allegedly headbutted him with full force, striking near his right eye. The unexpected attack left the officer badly injured, with a deep wound to his head.
Chavan was immediately rushed to a nearby government hospital, where doctors confirmed a serious eye and head injury. Prison sources revealed that despite being restrained, the accused inmate continued to hurl abuses and tried to disrupt prison operations even after the assault.
The Arthur Road Jail authorities have filed a formal complaint. Based on Chavan’s statement, the N.M. Joshi Marg police registered a case against Affan Saifuddin Khan. Investigators are also examining whether the incident is linked to a possible gang war brewing inside the jail.
Arthur Road Jail, known for housing several high-profile criminals, has a history of violent clashes between rival groups. Security experts say overcrowding and lack of staff contribute to frequent altercations, often escalating into violent incidents.
Maharashtra prison authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against the accused and that security protocols will be reviewed to prevent such attacks in the future. The investigation is ongoing, with a focus on whether external gang links played a role in the assault.