Vasai dad may have to spend weekend in jail

Naigaon resident Francis Gomes (60), who was arrested for confining his three daughters and wife for seven years in their flat, may have to spend the weekend behind bars.

Naigaon resident Francis Gomes (60), who was arrested for confining his three daughters and wife for seven years in their flat, may have to spend the weekend behind bars.

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Gomes’ lawyer, BN Gujar, said a brother of the accused living outside the city would come on Saturday to depose as a surety for Gomes before the court. “If no one comes forward to act as surety, I may move the court for cash bail,” said Gujar.

Non-governmental organisation Anand Rehabilitation Centre, which helped in rescuing Barbara (21), Elizabeth (27) and their mother Teresa (50), will file an application in court on Saturday opposing the bail.

Gujar said Gomes would be released only after his brother submits the required documents. The NGO and the local police rescued the women from their flat on Tuesday. The police said the women were confined as the accused believed they would be raped if they stepped out. The police suspect Gomes is mentally unstable.

Gujar denied this. “The remand application does not say that Gomes is mentally unstable,” said Gujar. “The police have said that his wife and daughters who are mentally unstable and that’s why they have been sent for medical care.”