Rohit Shetty Firing Case: Accused Lured by Promise of Quick Money, Paid Handsome Sum After Mission

New details have emerged in the firing incident outside Rohit Shetty’s Juhu residence. Investigations reveal that the four main accused were promised a total of ₹3 lakh and joined the gang driven by the lure of quick wealth.

Main Shooter Received Advance for Expenses

According to the Mumbai Crime Branch, the primary shooter, Deepak Chandra, was given ₹50,000 in advance to cover travel, accommodation, and preparation costs. The remaining accused were enticed with the promise of substantial payment upon successful completion of the mission.

Crime Branch sources revealed that the accused joined the gang to establish a reputation, instill fear in the locality, and accumulate wealth quickly. This initial greed gradually escalated into planning a serious criminal act.

Twelve Arrested So Far

The incident took place on the night of 1 February, when multiple rounds were fired outside Shetty’s home. Fortunately, no one was injured. The attack caused panic in the neighborhood, prompting an immediate police investigation. Using CCTV footage, call records, and technical evidence, the Crime Branch has arrested 12 suspects from different states so far.

Reconnaissance Before the Attack

Investigators discovered that the accused conducted multiple reconnaissance trips to Shetty’s house prior to the attack. After executing the firing, they fled Mumbai via separate routes and kept their mobile phones switched off, delaying location tracking.

Weapons Recovered

During the probe, police recovered the firearm used in the attack. The pistol, traced to Haryana, has been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for ballistic testing to scientifically confirm its use in the incident. The main accused guided police to the weapon’s location, strengthening the case.

Mastermind Operating from Jail

The investigation revealed that Praveen Lonkar, currently incarcerated in the Baba Siddiqui murder case, played a key role in orchestrating the firing. He, along with his brother Shubham Lonkar, planned the attack and allegedly coordinated the operation from jail, providing weapons, motorcycles, and funds to the shooters.

Multi-State Investigation

Twelve teams of the Mumbai Crime Branch are actively investigating the case across Maharashtra, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Senior police officials have confirmed that Praveen Lonkar will soon be formally taken into police custody for this firing case, further solidifying the investigation.