Mumbai’s Crime Branch has notched a major breakthrough in the sensational firing incident at Bollywood director Rohit Shetty’s residence. The 13th accused, Pravin Lonkar, has been taken into custody from Arthur Road Jail, where he was already lodged in connection with the Baba Siddique murder case. A special MCOCA court remanded him to police custody until March 16, paving the way for intense interrogation.
Senior police officials revealed that Pravin, brother of alleged mastermind Shubham Lonkar, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the plot even from behind bars. Investigations uncovered that he directed the hiding of three weapons, including the pistol used in the attack, at a secret location known only to him. Accused Asaram Fasle retrieved these firearms on Pravin’s instructions and handed them over to Swapnil Sakat.
The Pune module, coordinated entirely by Pravin Lonkar, supplied both the vehicle and arms for the operation. This intricate network spans across states, with arrests from Pune and Uttar Pradesh already in place. Crime Branch now plans face-to-face interrogations between Pravin and other suspects to unravel deeper layers of the conspiracy.
This arrest sheds crucial light on how jailed operatives continue to pull strings in high-profile crimes. As probing intensifies, authorities anticipate disclosures that could dismantle the entire syndicate behind the Shetty residence scare. The incident, which sent shockwaves through Mumbai’s film industry, underscores rising threats to celebrities amid gang rivalries.
Police emphasize that the investigation remains ongoing, with forensic analysis of the weapons and vehicle underway. Pravin’s custody will be crucial in mapping connections to the Baba Siddique case, potentially linking multiple violent episodes. Mumbai Police vows to leave no stone unturned in ensuring public safety and celebrity protection.