A violent stabbing of two security guards in Mira Road near Mumbai has escalated into a major security investigation after police discovered disturbing handwritten notes and suspicious material at the accused's residence, according to news agency ANI.
Attack on Guards
The incident occurred around 4 am on Monday in the Naya Nagar area of Mira Road, where two guards — Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Sen — were on duty at an under-construction site. Police said 31-year-old Zaib Zubair Ansari allegedly attacked both men with a knife. Mishra sustained grievous injuries and was rushed to hospital, while Sen suffered minor injuries.
Eyewitness claims cited in the ANI report suggested that Ansari first approached the guards, asked for directions, then returned and questioned them about their religion. It was further claimed that one guard was asked to recite the Kalma, and when he failed, the accused allegedly launched the knife attack.
Rapid Arrest
Following the attack, local police launched a rapid manhunt, scanning CCTV footage from the area and identifying the suspect. Ansari was arrested within 90 minutes of the incident. However, the case took a dramatic turn when officers searched his Mira Road residence.
Handwritten Notes Trigger Bigger Probe
According to information gathered during the investigation, police recovered handwritten notes in which the accused allegedly expressed a desire to join ISIS. More alarmingly, investigators said the notes described the stabbing attack as a “first step” towards that objective. The discoveries immediately raised concern among security agencies, after which the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) was brought into the case.
Digital Devices Under Scanner
Officials are now examining documents, videos and other material recovered from Ansari’s electronic devices, including his mobile phone and laptop. Investigators are trying to determine whether he acted alone or had any contact with extremist handlers or networks. Security agencies are treating the matter as a possible “lone wolf” terror-style attack while examining the accused’s digital footprint.
Background of Accused
Investigators said Ansari is a science graduate who spent several years in the United States before returning to India in 2019. He had reportedly been living alone in Mira Road and conducting online chemistry coaching sessions. Officials believe his period of isolation may have played a role in possible online radicalisation, though they are continuing to verify the extent of any external links.
ATS Takes Over
The case, which began as an attempted murder investigation into the stabbing of two guards, has now widened significantly, with ATS leading further questioning and forensic examination. Police have appealed to the public to maintain calm and not believe rumours as the probe continues.
