Unmasking conspiracy: Two more arrested in Baba Siddique’s murder case as Mumbai police close in on crime web

Maharashtra News: In a recent breakthrough, the Crime Branch of the Mumbai Police arrested two additional suspects, Aditya Gudankar and Rafiq Shaikh, in connection with the murder of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique. The two suspects, detained in Pune, were presented in the Esplanade Court and subsequently placed under police custody until November 13.

Arrests and Connections to the Murder Plot

The arrests bring the total number of suspects detained in the case to 18, marking significant progress in the investigation into Siddique’s death. According to authorities, Gudankar and Shaikh are suspected to have collaborated with others involved in the crime. A day before these arrests, police apprehended another suspect, Gaurav Vilas Apune, also from Pune. Investigators believe Apune played a crucial role in planning the assassination and maintaining contact with the hired shooters.

Weapons Recovered in Expanding Investigation

As the investigation proceeds, additional weapons connected to Siddique's murder have been recovered. A firearm was seized from the Pune home of Rupesh Mohol, one of the detained suspects. Previously, a weapon was found at the rented residence of another suspect, Ram Fulchand Kanoujia, in Raigad. Photographs of pistols were reportedly discovered on the mobile phones of some accused, suggesting organized communication and planning among the suspects.

Threat to Witnesses Sparks New Concern

In a recent twist, one of the key witnesses received a threatening call demanding ₹5 crore under the threat of murder. The witness filed a complaint at the Khar police station, underscoring the high-stakes nature of this case and prompting police to enhance witness protection efforts.

Timeline of Events and Gang Involvement

The murder of Baba Siddique took place on October 12 outside the Bandra East office of his son, Zeeshan Siddique. Despite medical intervention, Siddique succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital. Shortly after, the gang led by jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi claimed responsibility for the killing. Further investigations suggest Bishnoi’s brother, Anmol Bishnoi, may have orchestrated the plot, given his communication with the shooters.

The case highlights the complexities surrounding organized crime networks and the challenges faced by law enforcement in untangling connections and motives. As the investigation deepens, Mumbai Police continue to trace connections, recover evidence, and pursue leads in pursuit of justice.