Mumbai Police Investigate Firing at Rohit Shetty's Juhu Residence
Mumbai police are actively investigating whether the recent firing incident outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty's Juhu residence is connected to his upcoming film projects. Investigators are examining multiple angles, including his professional work and recent association with underworld-themed material. Shetty, known for his close ties with senior police officers and frequent appearances with them at public events, had recently acquired the rights to former Mumbai police commissioner Rakesh Maria's book on the underworld, adding a layer of intrigue to the case.
Enhanced Security and Forensic Examination
Following the alarming incident, police have significantly enhanced security measures around Shetty's residence. Forensic teams were promptly deployed to secure the premises for a detailed examination, ensuring no evidence is overlooked. The firing occurred at approximately 12:45 am on the first floor of Shetty Tower at Hasya Kalakar Mehmood Chowk in Juhu. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the attack.
Police officials confirmed that four to five rounds were fired at the building, striking the wall and first-floor portion. The assailant fled the scene immediately after the shooting. In response, Mumbai Police have arrested five individuals from Pune in connection with the incident. The arrested suspects are identified as Swapnil Sakat (23), Siddharth Yenpure (20), Aditya Gayaki (19), Samarth Pomaji (18), and Aman Marote (27). Among them, one is a college student, while the others are currently unemployed. Authorities have not yet disclosed which of the accused fired the shots.
Investigation Details and Suspect Movements
Investigators revealed that the accused traveled from Pune on a motorcycle to carry out the firing. After the incident, they abandoned the bike approximately 2 kilometers from Shetty's residence. CCTV footage captured the rider near the spot, providing crucial evidence for the investigation. The motorcycle, which had a Pune registration and was owned by one of the accused, was traced through its registration details. It is now in the custody of the Crime Branch and Anti-Extortion Cell for further analysis.
Police noted that Shetty has three private security guards stationed in the building. At the time of the firing, the guards were inside the premises, with one briefly away. All rushed out upon hearing the gunshots. Shetty immediately informed the police, demonstrating swift action in response to the threat. This prompt reporting allowed law enforcement to begin their investigation without delay.
Gang Links and Social Media Claims
Soon after the incident, a social media post surfaced in which Shubham Lonkar, an associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, claimed responsibility for the firing. The post also issued a threat to Shetty and the broader Bollywood industry. Police are currently verifying this claim, noting that Shetty is not known to have received any prior threats. The Pune angle is being closely examined, as the city is believed to have been used by the Bishnoi gang to plan the murder of NCP MLA Baba Siddiqui.
Police clarified that no direct link has yet been established between the suspects arrested in the Juhu firing case and those held in the Siddiqui murder. However, this angle remains under active investigation as authorities explore all possible connections. Mumbai Police produced all five accused before a criminal court, which granted four days of police custody for further interrogation.
Legal Proceedings and Defense Claims
Counsel for the accused told the court that his clients have no links with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and claimed they had no knowledge of the firing. Police, however, asserted that the arrests were made after analyzing CCTV footage and technical evidence, indicating a strong basis for their actions. DCP Sambhaji Kadam stated that the accused hailed from different parts of Pune and were arrested by coordinated teams. He emphasized that further details will emerge as the investigation progresses, highlighting the ongoing nature of the probe.
The incident has raised concerns about security in the Bollywood industry and the potential influence of underworld elements. As police continue to investigate, the focus remains on uncovering the motives behind the firing and ensuring the safety of individuals involved in high-profile projects. The case underscores the complex interplay between crime, media, and law enforcement in Mumbai's dynamic landscape.
