In the early hours of April 14, two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle fired five to six rounds outside Bollywood actor Salman Khan's residence in Bandra West. Despite the actor and his parents being at home asleep, no injuries were reported. Later, Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, claimed responsibility for the attack through a social media post, according to several media reports. In the message, he warned Salman against underestimating them and issued a stern ultimatum, stating that this was the first and final warning, implying further attacks if disregarded. Police have taken custody of the motorcycle used in the incident and are investigating all potential suspects, including the Bishnoi gang, to ascertain the motive behind the shooting.
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Bandra Bandstand Attack: Police Report
According to police reports, the assailants approached Galaxy Apartment via the Bandra Bandstand route, both of them wearing helmets. They fired two rounds towards the balcony of the actor's first-floor apartment, which was shielded by a curtain. Another bullet struck a spot on the wall adjacent to the balcony, while two additional rounds were fired into the air. During the subsequent examination of the scene, authorities discovered five bullet casings and a live round. Forensic analysis revealed that the assailants employed a 7.62-caliber firearm in the attack.
Bishnoi Gang Targets Salman
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang first aimed its hostility towards the Bollywood superstar in 2018, alleging that he had violated religious sentiments by reportedly killing a black buck during the shooting of the film "Hum Saath Saath Hain" in Rajasthan in 1999.
Anmol Suspected in Moosewala Murder Case
Anmol, a fugitive believed to be evading authorities in Canada, has emerged as a key suspect in the murder investigation of Punjab-based singer-politician Sidhu Moosewala. Known for his criminal history with 18 prior cases, Anmol gained notoriety after being released from Jodhpur jail in October 2021.
Recent revelations suggest a sinister plot by the Bishnoi syndicate to target Salman, which ultimately led to the tragic killing of Moosewala on May 29, 2022. Despite numerous attempts, the syndicate's efforts to eliminate Salman were thwarted. Now, with Anmol's alleged involvement in Moosewala's murder, authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend the elusive fugitive, adding a new layer of complexity to an already convoluted investigation.
Also Read | Salman Khan receives new threat through Facebook post, security reviewed
Threat Note Found: Moosewala Murder Connection
On June 5, 2022, a direct threat was issued by the group through a note discovered by his father, Salim Khan, while taking a morning walk at the Bandra Bandstand promenade. The note mentioned, "Moosewala jaisa kar doonga (You will suffer the same fate as Moosewala)." This message referenced the killing of Moosewala, who was shot dead in Mansa village on May 29, 2022, allegedly by members associated with the Bishnoi gang.
In the wake of Sunday's incident, the Bandra police filed a case against two unidentified assailants under Section 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code, along with relevant sections of the Arms Act. Subsequently, the case was transferred to the Mumbai crime branch for further investigation. Additionally, the local police and the Mumbai crime branch, the state's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) are also conducting investigations into the incident from a terrorism perspective.
Who is Lawrence Bishnoi?
Bishnoi, 31, gained notoriety for his involvement in various criminal activities, including murder and extortion. His profile rose further following assertions made by his associate Goldy Brar, alleging their joint participation in the killing of Punjabi singer Moosewala, allegedly planned together.
Since November 2022, Salman has ramped up his security arrangements, taking significant steps to ensure his safety. Reports suggest that Salman has obtained a gun licence for personal protection and recently acquired a bulletproof vehicle to further fortify his security measures.
Following Sunday's incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reached out to Salman, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the government's commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens, including public figures like Salman.
Salman's Residence Assault: Key Suspect Revealed
The investigation into the assault on Salman' residence has revealed intriguing details, shedding light on the potential identities of the assailants. According to a report in the Times of India, one of the attackers, tentatively identified as Vishal alias Kalu, is suspected to be from Gurugram and may have been involved in a recent murder case of a businessman in Haryana. Witness descriptions suggest that the assailants were around 5.8 feet tall and seemed to be non-residents of Maharashtra. Further analysis of surveillance footage indicates the presence of Vishal, identifiable by his red T-shirt, among the individuals implicated in the attack. The findings point out the multi-state nature of the case and highlight the complexities involved in apprehending the perpetrators.
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