Mumbai: The investigation into the murder of veteran Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique has taken a significant turn, with a bone ossification test confirming that one of the accused, Dharmaraj Kashyap, is not a minor. Kashyap, a resident of Uttar Pradesh, was arrested along with Gurmel Baljit Singh, 23, from Haryana, while the third shooter, Shiv Kumar from Uttar Pradesh, remains at large.
The Murder and Investigation
Baba Siddique, 66, was shot dead outside his son's office in Mumbai's Bandra area on Saturday night. The police have recovered two pistols and 28 live bullets from the apprehended shooters. The crime branch has set up 15 teams to track down Shiv Kumar and identify those who provided logistical support to the shooters.
The Masterminds
The investigation has revealed that the brothers Pravin and Shubham Lonkar, from Pune, hatched the conspiracy to murder Baba Siddique. Pravin, 28, has been arrested, while Shubham remains on the run. The brothers allegedly enlisted Kashyap and Kumar Gautam to carry out the hit.
Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's Involvement
Sources suggest that the suspects have ties to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently lodged in Gujarat's Sabarmati jail. Bishnoi was previously involved in a shooting incident outside Bollywood actor Salman Khan's Mumbai residence. Khan was a close friend of Baba Siddique.
Police Action and Assurance
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has vowed to arrest the third accused soon, stating, "Be it the Bishnoi gang or any underworld gang, we won't spare anyone." The police have assured that they will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Key Developments
Accused's Age Verified: Dharmaraj Kashyap's bone ossification test confirms he is not a minor.
Masterminds Identified: Pravin and Shubham Lonkar from Pune allegedly planned the murder.
Gangster Connection: Suspects linked to Lawrence Bishnoi, involved in previous shooting incident.
Police Action: 15 teams formed to track down remaining shooter and provide logistical support.
Chief Minister's Assurance: Maharashtra CM vows to arrest third accused soon.