Investigation – Mumbai Crime Branch Arrests Key Suspect in Shetty Firing Case
Investigation – Mumbai Police have detained another individual linked to the recent firing incident outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence, intensifying efforts to uncover the full network behind the attack. The Anti-Extortion Cell of the Mumbai Crime Branch confirmed that the suspect allegedly played a crucial role by arranging the firearm used during the shooting. Authorities have stated that the arrested individual will be presented before the Esplanade Court later in the day as investigators seek further custodial interrogation.
Weapon Supply Link Strengthens Probe
Officials identified the newly arrested suspect as Asaram Fasle, also known as Babu, who is believed to have facilitated access to the weapon used in the attack. According to investigators, Fasle’s alleged involvement has helped authorities trace the supply chain of the firearm, which remains a central aspect of the ongoing probe. The arrest is considered a significant breakthrough as investigators attempt to determine whether a larger organised network orchestrated the incident.
Law enforcement sources said the Anti-Extortion Cell has been actively pursuing leads since the shooting occurred, focusing on individuals who may have supported the operation at different stages. The police have not disclosed further operational details but confirmed that interrogations are continuing to establish the precise roles of each suspect.
Earlier Arrests and Custody Status
Before Fasle’s arrest, police had already detained four suspects believed to be connected to the case. The custody period for these individuals is scheduled to conclude today, and authorities are expected to seek additional legal directions based on fresh evidence and statements collected during questioning. Investigators have suggested that each suspect appears to have handled a specific task, indicating a coordinated approach in planning the attack.
Scooter Trail Leads to Pune Connection
In a separate development, investigators traced the scooter allegedly used during the firing to a man based in Pune. Police sources revealed that the vehicle had reportedly been sold shortly before the incident to one of the arrested suspects, Aditya Gayaki, for approximately Rs 30,000. During the transaction, the seller reportedly obtained Gayaki’s signature on a blank sheet of paper, a detail that investigators are examining for potential misuse.
Authorities stated that Gayaki, along with another accused, Samarth Pomaji, transported the scooter to Mumbai and left it at a predetermined location in the Juhu area. Investigators believe this step was part of a carefully structured plan designed to separate responsibilities among different individuals to reduce the risk of identification.
Alleged Remote Instructions from Mastermind
Police sources further indicated that the suspects were allegedly acting under directions from Shubham Lonkar. Investigators believe Lonkar coordinated the operation and instructed the shooter to collect the scooter from the designated location before carrying out the firing. According to preliminary findings, the individuals involved in transporting and preparing the vehicle reportedly had no knowledge of the shooter’s identity, which suggests deliberate compartmentalisation within the operation.
Investigators noted that similar operational strategies have been observed in previous criminal cases, where different groups are assigned specific roles to execute a single plan. Authorities believe such arrangements make investigations more complex and time-consuming.
Shooter Remains Untraceable
Despite multiple arrests, the individual who allegedly fired shots outside Rohit Shetty’s residence remains at large. Police teams are continuing surveillance and intelligence-based operations to locate the shooter. Officials emphasised that the investigation is progressing and additional arrests cannot be ruled out as new evidence emerges.
Authorities have assured that they are committed to ensuring the safety of public figures and residents while pursuing every lead related to the case. The Mumbai Crime Branch continues to coordinate with various units to track remaining suspects and identify possible motives behind the attack.