Firing Outside Filmmaker Rohit Shetty's Residence Was Pre-Planned Four Months in Advance
The Mumbai Police disclosed on Sunday that the firing incident outside the residence of renowned filmmaker Rohit Shetty was meticulously planned at least four months in advance. This revelation came after the arrest of four individuals connected to the case, shedding light on a well-organized criminal operation.
Key Details of the Investigation
Investigators have uncovered that the scooter used in the firing was purchased four months ago in Pune. The funds for this purchase were allegedly sent by Shubham Lonkar, who has now been officially named as an accused in the case. The scooter was bought from Aman Marote, a resident of Karve Nagar on the outskirts of Pune. Police officials stated they are uncertain whether Marote was aware that the vehicle would be used for criminal activities.
Arrests and Ongoing Search for the Main Shooter
The four arrested accused are:
- Siddharth Yenpure (20)
- Samarth Pomaji (18)
- Swapnil Sakat (23)
- Aaditya Gayaki (19)
They were produced before a court late Sunday night and remanded to police custody until February 5. Meanwhile, Crime Branch teams are intensively searching for the main shooter, who remains unidentified. CCTV footage captured the shooter disposing of the scooter in the Vile Parle area after the incident.
Connection to Shubham Lonkar and the Bishnoi Gang
Two of the arrested individuals were allegedly in frequent contact with Shubham Lonkar via the Signal app. Lonkar, suspected to be operating from outside the country, instructed them to arrange for the bike and transferred money to their bank accounts. The police noted that the case exhibits the hallmark of the Bishnoi gang's modus operandi, characterized by individuals working in isolated cells. Those involved in procuring the vehicle claimed ignorance of the shooter's identity.
Current Status and Broader Implications
With both Bishnoi brothers currently incarcerated, Shubham Lonkar is believed to be managing the gang's operations from abroad, aided by associates Aarzoo Bishnoi, Hari Boxer, and Goldy Dhillon. The police have been actively searching for Lonkar since his involvement in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, where he was also named as a wanted accused. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in tackling organized crime networks in Mumbai.
