Crime – Six Arrested in Rohit Shetty House Firing Case
Crime – The Mumbai Police have detained six more individuals, including the suspected gunman accused of opening fire at filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence in Juhu earlier this month. Officials confirmed the arrests on Monday, stating that the operation was carried out by the Anti-Extortion Cell after tracking the suspects across multiple states.
Arrests Made Across Two States
According to police sources, the alleged shooter, identified as Deepak Sharma, was apprehended along with five associates from locations in Haryana and Rajasthan late Sunday night. The suspects were subsequently transported to Mumbai for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Investigators believe the group played distinct roles in planning and executing the attack. While Sharma is accused of firing the shots, others allegedly assisted in arranging logistics and facilitating the operation.
Details of the Firing Incident
The incident occurred at approximately 12:45 am on February 1 at Shetty’s nine-storey residential building in the upscale Juhu area. Authorities reported that at least five bullets were discharged toward the first floor of the property. One of the rounds struck the glass panel of a gym located within the building premises. No injuries were reported during the episode.
The firing prompted heightened security measures in the locality and raised concerns about the safety of prominent personalities residing in Mumbai.
Total Arrests Reach Eleven
With the latest detentions, the total number of accused individuals arrested in connection with the case has risen to eleven. Earlier, the Crime Branch had taken into custody Aditya Gayaki, Siddharth Yenpure, Samarth Pomaji, Swapnil Sakat, and Asaram Fasale.
Police officials allege that these individuals helped arrange a scooter, weapons, and other logistical support required to carry out the attack. Their interrogation reportedly provided critical leads that guided officers to the newly arrested suspects.
Alleged Gang Link Surfaces
Investigators have linked the case to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a criminal network that has been under scrutiny in several high-profile incidents. Police said that Shubham Lonkar, believed to be associated with the gang, allegedly claimed responsibility for the firing through a social media post.
Lonkar is currently listed among the wanted accused in the case. Authorities have intensified efforts to trace his whereabouts.
Connection to Other High-Profile Cases
Law enforcement officials noted that Lonkar is also wanted in connection with other major cases, including the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique and a separate firing incident outside the Bandra residence of actor Salman Khan. These links have added further gravity to the ongoing investigation.
Police sources indicated that investigators are examining whether the firing at Shetty’s residence was part of a broader pattern of intimidation targeting prominent figures.
Strict Legal Provisions Invoked
Given the alleged involvement of organized crime elements, the Mumbai Police have invoked provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) in the case. The stringent law is typically applied in cases involving organized criminal syndicates and carries severe penalties upon conviction.
Officials stated that further interrogation of the arrested individuals is underway to uncover the motive behind the attack and to identify any additional conspirators.
Security agencies continue to monitor developments closely, while ensuring protection for individuals who may be at risk. The investigation remains active, and authorities have assured that appropriate legal action will follow based on the findings.