By – Prakarsh Kastwar
In a critical development in the murder case of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddiqui, the Mumbai Crime Branch has arrested five additional suspects. This comes six days after Siddiqui was tragically shot dead on the night of October 12, outside the office of his son, Zeeshan Siddiqui, in Maharashtra. He later succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital.
Latest Arrests and Investigation Progress
The recent arrests were made during targeted raids in Panvel and Karjat within the Raigad district, following specific intelligence reports. A Mumbai Police official confirmed that the arrested individuals were implicated in both the conspiracy and execution of the crime. Notably, these suspects have been linked to the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which has claimed responsibility for Siddiqui’s murder.
Previously, police had apprehended four suspects; however, the main perpetrator remains at large. Among those recently arrested, two are from Uttar Pradesh, one from Haryana, and one from Pune.
Circumstances of the Murder
Baba Siddiqui was shot while leaving his son’s office on the fateful night. His death has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, prompting heightened security concerns among local leaders. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation, but affiliations with organized crime appear to play a significant role.
Criminal Training and Techniques
According to police reports, the suspects had learned to handle firearms by watching instructional videos on YouTube. The main accused, identified as Shivkumar Gautam, reportedly gained practical experience through celebratory gunfire at weddings. The group utilized a rented house in Kurla as their training ground, highlighting the alarming ease with which individuals can acquire weapon skills in urban settings
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Meeting with Deputy Chief Minister
In a separate but related development, Zeeshan Siddiqui, Baba Siddiqui’s son, met with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss the ongoing investigation. The meeting included key political figures such as NCP chief Ajit Pawar and several senior police officials. According to a statement from the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office, police representatives updated the family on the investigation’s progress and provided insight into the next steps.
Community Reaction and Implications
The murder of Baba Siddiqui has raised serious concerns about political safety and the influence of organized crime in Maharashtra. The community is grappling with the implications of such violence against political figures, as calls for enhanced security and accountability grow louder.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on capturing the main suspect and dismantling the networks behind this heinous crime. The Mumbai Police are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the need for community cooperation in the fight against organized crime.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation into Baba Siddiqui’s murder highlights the complexities of crime and politics in Maharashtra. With multiple arrests and a significant gang’s involvement, the case underscores the urgent need for vigilance and action against such violence. As the police work to bring those responsible to justice, the community looks on with hope for a safer future.
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