Mumbai Crime Branch and UP STF Joint Operation Nabs 14th Accused in Filmmaker Shooting Case
In a significant breakthrough, the Mumbai Crime Branch, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF), successfully apprehended Pradeep Sharma, also known as Golu, on Saturday. The arrest is directly linked to the alarming firing incident that targeted the Juhu residence of renowned filmmaker Rohit Shetty.
Technical Surveillance Leads to Arrest in Agra
According to official statements from the STF, the Mumbai Crime Branch utilized advanced technical surveillance methods to pinpoint Sharma's location. Upon gathering this crucial intelligence, they formally requested assistance from the Uttar Pradesh STF to facilitate the arrest.
The operation culminated in Agra, where Sharma, aged 23, was taken into custody based on specific, actionable information regarding his whereabouts. He is scheduled to be presented before a Mumbai court on Sunday, marking him as the fourteenth individual to be arrested in connection with this high-profile case.
Gang Links and Social Media Influence Uncovered
The investigation has revealed disturbing connections to organized crime networks. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently informed the Legislative Council that Shubham Lonkar, an operative associated with the notorious Bishnoi gang, has been identified as the prime accused in this case.
During interrogation, Pradeep Sharma confessed to the STF that he was radicalized and influenced by social media content propagated by the Lonkar gang. He further disclosed that a former associate, Shivam Dube, instructed him to carry out the criminal act. Following these orders, Sharma recruited two other residents from Agra, Vishnu Kushwaha and Deepak, to execute the plan.
Details of the Shooting and Previous Criminal Activity
The attack on Rohit Shetty's residence occurred on February 1. Deepak traveled to Mumbai and fired multiple rounds outside the building. Police reports confirm that five shots were discharged, with one bullet striking and damaging a glass panel at the property.
This was not Deepak's first involvement in such violence. On May 28 of the previous year, acting on instructions from Shivam Dube, Deepak fired at another individual's home in Rajasthan. He was subsequently arrested by police in that case along with the firearm used.
Ongoing Investigations and Security Measures
In a related development, the STF arrested Deepak, Kushwaha, and five of their associates on February 15 this year for their roles in the shooting at Shetty's house. The group had attempted to evade capture by going into hiding following the incident.
In response to the attack, Mumbai police have significantly enhanced security protocols. This includes increased patrolling in vulnerable areas, the establishment of additional checkpoints, and intensified preventive actions against known habitual offenders to deter similar crimes.
Chief Minister Fadnavis also provided an update to the Legislative Council regarding the state's efforts to pursue other suspects. He confirmed that the Maharashtra government has formally sought custody of Anmol Bishnoi, who is currently detained under the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), highlighting the interstate and multi-agency dimensions of this ongoing investigation.
