Mafia-Linked Shooter Gunned Down in Targeted Attack on Lucknow-Ayodhya Highway
In a brazen daylight assault, Shoaib Kidwai, also known as Bobby, a notorious shooter with ties to the slain mafia don Mukhtar Ansari, was brutally shot dead in Barabanki on Friday afternoon. The chilling incident unfolded near the Aseni turn on the bustling Lucknow–Ayodhya highway, within the jurisdiction of the Kotwali police station, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Attack
According to police reports, Shoaib was traveling in a car from Lucknow to Barabanki when his vehicle was intercepted by assailants on motorcycles shortly after it exited the highway. Before he could react, the attackers swiftly surrounded the car and unleashed a barrage of indiscriminate gunfire from both sides, leaving him with no chance to escape.
Officials confirmed that more than 10 rounds were fired at the vehicle, which bore multiple bullet marks, indicating a meticulously planned and targeted execution. Forensic teams recovered five empty cartridges from the scene, underscoring the violent nature of the assault.
Immediate Aftermath and Police Response
The sound of gunshots triggered panic among locals, who rushed to the area in alarm. Police personnel from Nagar Kotwali responded promptly, arriving at the scene and shifting the critically injured Shoaib to a nearby hospital. Tragically, doctors declared him dead upon arrival, confirming the fatal outcome of the attack.
Senior police officers, accompanied by forensic experts, swiftly descended on the crime scene to collect evidence and piece together the sequence of events. In response to the incident, the district was placed on high alert, and combing operations were launched to track down the perpetrators.
Investigation and Suspected Motives
Superintendent of Police for Barabanki, Arpit Vijayvargiya, stated that CCTV footage from surrounding areas is being meticulously scanned, and multiple specialized teams have been formed to identify and apprehend those involved. "The motive behind the killing is yet to be officially confirmed, though we suspect gang rivalry and a further investigation is underway," he emphasized, highlighting the ongoing efforts to unravel the circumstances.
This incident adds to a series of violent episodes linked to organized crime in the region, raising concerns about law and order. Authorities are intensifying their probe to ensure justice is served and prevent such occurrences in the future.
