Shubham Lonkar, a Pune-based individual with alleged links to the Lawrence Bishnoi organised crime gang, has emerged as a central figure in the investigation into the shooting incident outside Bollywood director Rohit Shetty’s residence in Juhu early on February 1. The incident, in which multiple shots were fired at Shetty Tower, triggered a major police probe and heightened security in the area.

Lonkar is believed to have been involved in several high-profile criminal cases prior to the latest incident. He is an accused in the October 2024 murder of Nationalist Congress Party leader Baba Siddique and has appeared in connection with a separate firing outside actor Salman Khan’s home in April 2024, though in that instance he was released due to lack of evidence.

Police sources say Lonkar was once arrested in early 2024 by Akola police on arms-related charges after investigators found communications linking him to the Bishnoi gang. He was granted bail. During earlier interrogation, Lonkar reportedly discussed his failed attempt to join the Indian Army, a setback after which he became associated with gang members who allegedly provided training in Nepal and Azerbaijan.

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A social media account purportedly linked to Lonkar and other gang members claimed responsibility for the Juhu firing — describing it as a “warning” and calling it “a small trailer” before threatening further violence if their demands were not met. Police are in the process of verifying the authenticity of the message while continuing their investigation.

Following the shooting, five suspects have been detained from Pune and handed over to the Mumbai Police for questioning. Authorities have stressed that while Lonkar’s name surfaced through online claims and past associations, investigations are ongoing to establish direct involvement and motive.

The Maharashtra Police and Crime Branch continue to piece together evidence, including forensic and CCTV analysis, to fully understand the sequence of events and broader implications of the incident for public safety and the film industry.

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