Nithari killings: SC acquits Surendra Koli in last pending case, orders immediate release

The Supreme Court on Tuesday acquitted Surendra Koli (photo, centre), the main accused in the 2006 Nithari serial killings, and set aside his conviction in the last remaining case linked to the gruesome episode that had once shaken the nation.

- PARMOD KUMAR

A Bench comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, Justice Surya Kant, and Justice Vikram Nath directed Koli's release forthwith, provided he is not wanted in any other matter.

Delivering the order, Justice Vikram Nath said: "The curative petition is allowed. The petitioner is acquitted of the charges. The petitioner shall be released forthwith."

With this verdict, the top court has nullified Koli's final conviction in the Nithari cases. He had already been acquitted in twelve other cases, leaving this as the only one still pending against him.