Welcome actor Mushtaq Khan kidnapped in Meerut, tortured for ransom; back home now

Mushtaq Khan was also kidnapped in the same manner as Sunil Pal

Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, who has been a part of many hit movies, was reportedly kidnapped and tortured in Meerut on November 20.

According to his business partner Shivam Yadav, Mushtaq Khan was approached to attend an award show in Meerut on November 20, and an advance payment was also made into the actor's account along with tickets.

Shivam further told India Today that the Welcome actor was asked to get into a car that would take him to the venue from Delhi.

And the car driver took him to a secluded area near Bijnor, where he was reportedly held hostage by kidnappers for nearly 12 hours.

According to Shivam, Mushtaq was tortured by the kidnappers, and they demanded a ransom of Rs one crore. But the kidnappers only managed to take Rs 2 lakh from the actor's and his son’s bank accounts.

Shivam further said that Mushtaq managed to escape after hearing the morning azaan. He ran towards the mosque from where the azaan's voice was coming and sought help from the locals then. And now with the assistance of the police, he managed to return home safely.

“Mushtaq sir and his family were completely shaken over what happened to him. However, he was always sure that he would file an FIR after he composed himself. Yesterday, I went to Bijnor and filed an official FIR. We have proof of the flight ticket, the bank accounts, and even CCTV footage near the airport. He also recognizes the neighborhood, even the house where he was kept. I think the police team will surely catch the culprits soon," said Shivam.

Mushtaq's abduction has a striking resemblance to the way comedian Sunil Pal was also kidnapped, and that too on the Delhi Meerut highway. He was also asked to perform at an event, and a flight ticket and advance were made to his account.

These series of events have raised questions about the possibility of a syndicate targeting celebrities.

Shivam added, “We had no clue about the case. After Mushtaq sir returned, we spoke about the incident with a few of our close friends. When Sunil’s case was highlighted in the media, they informed us about the same. It is shocking that two public figures from the industry had to go through a similar ordeal. We hope there is awareness and protection in the future for everyone."

Mushtaq Khan is doing ok and is also going to meet the press and tell them about his ordeal in detail soon.