Mumbai witnessed dramatic scenes on Thursday afternoon when a man identified as Rohit Arya took at least 20 youngsters hostage at Ra Studio in the Powai area. The victims, aged between 15 and 20, were rescued after a tense standoff that prompted a massive response from the Mumbai Police and Quick Reaction Team (QRT). Authorities have taken Arya into custody and launched an investigation into his motives.

According to sources, Arya locked the young hostages inside the studio and made unspecified “demands” before threatening violence. In a video shared online before his capture, he declared that he was not a terrorist, did not seek money, but wanted to speak with certain unnamed individuals. He warned that if his request was denied, he would harm himself and set the premises ablaze, endangering the hostages.

The situation triggered panic in the neighborhood as local residents and parents gathered outside the studio. Senior police officers rushed to the scene to lead negotiations. The QRT surrounded the location and safely evacuated all the hostages following intense persuasion and tactical intervention. Initial reports suggest no casualties, though several students are reportedly in shock and receiving counselling.

Also Read: RSF Drone Strike Kills 30 at Shelter in Sudan’s El-Fasher, City Trapped in Crisis

Officials are now probing Arya’s background to determine his motives and whether he acted under mental distress or external influence. Investigators are also examining his social media activity and previous interactions related to the studio premises. The Mumbai Police Commissioner praised the swift response of the QRT team for preventing a potential tragedy.

The frightening episode has reignited concerns about security measures in private studios and educational setups across Mumbai. Authorities are expected to review local safety protocols to ensure that similar incidents are averted in the future.

Also Read: Tragic Indonesia School Collapse: Rescuers Race to Save Trapped Students