In a major breakthrough in the Rohit Shetty firing case, the Mumbai Crime Branch has arrested 12 accused persons, exposing a jail‑linked conspiracy behind the attack on the filmmaker’s Juhu residence. The latest development reveals that key planning and logistics were allegedly coordinated from inside prison by a gangster tied to a notorious criminal network.
The firing incident at Shetty’s home occurred on January 31, when unidentified assailants fired multiple shots near his house in the early hours, raising alarm across the film community in Mumbai. No injuries were reported, but the attack triggered an intensive investigation by law enforcement agencies.
Police sources have indicated that Praveen Lonkar, a closely watched gangster currently lodged in judicial custody in connection with the Baba Siddique murder case, allegedly orchestrated the attack from inside prison. Investigators believe Lonkar arranged weapons, finance and instructions through contacts on the outside to execute the conspiracy.
Despite Lonkar being behind bars, authorities are expected to seek his formal custody in connection with the Shetty firing case as part of the ongoing probe. The investigation aims to map out all intermediaries and communication channels used to direct the plot highlighting significant coordination despite incarceration.
The Crime Branch’s operation spanned multiple states, with key accused taken into custody from Pune, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, among other locations. These arrested individuals include the main shooter and others who allegedly assisted in planning or supplying logistics for the incident.
Earlier police action had already led to the arrest of suspects linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, including those reportedly involved in scouting the location and transporting weapons or vehicles used in the attack. Authorities have invoked provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA), recognizing the organized nature of the crime.
Following the firing, a social media post allegedly by gang members claimed responsibility and warned of further action. The Crime Branch and other agencies have been tracking digital footprints and networks tied to extremist elements known for targeting high‑profile personalities in the film industry.
The case has continued to draw attention amid other related incidents, including past threats to figures within Bollywood attributed to gang operatives. This broader pattern of intimidation and violence has raised security concerns, prompting stronger protective measures for prominent individuals.
While 12 arrests mark significant progress, police officials say the probe is ongoing. Authorities are focusing on extracting detailed confessions, identifying all facilitators and uncovering whether further plots were in planning stages. Custodial interrogation of the arrested accused is expected to unearth additional leads in the conspiracy.
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