Mumbai police have filed a detailed chargesheet in connection with the firing outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty's residence, alleging that the attack was orchestrated to instill fear in the film industry and establish gang supremacy for an extortion racket. The chargesheet was submitted before a special MCOCA court by the police's anti-extortion cell on Thursday.
Chargesheet Details
The 1,624-page chargesheet names 15 arrested accused, while two key suspects—Shubham Lonkar and Arzoo—remain at large. Police have identified the involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, stating that the attack was carried out on Lonkar's orders.
Recruitment and Roles
According to the chargesheet, most of the suspects hail from Bijauli in Uttar Pradesh's Bah district. They were recruited through social media platforms by Lonkar, who has links to the Bishnoi gang. Each suspect was assigned specific roles in the operation.
The investigation revealed that accused Pradeep Kumar Jatav (22) was present at the crime scene alongside the main shooter, Deepak Sharma. Police further stated that Lonkar and his associate, Pravin Lonkar, acted as key financiers and strategists, arranging arms, ammunition, a motorcycle, and technical support for the attack.
The chargesheet underscores the gang's intent to use violence to further their extortion activities within the film industry. The case continues to be investigated as authorities search for the absconding suspects.
