Mumbai: The shocking murder of Baba Siddiqui, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has sent ripples of fear through Mumbai’s political, entertainment, and business circles. The assassination, carried out by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has left many celebrities, politicians, and industrialists on edge, fearing for their safety amidst escalating threats.
On Saturday night, during the vibrant Dussehra celebrations in Mumbai’s Bandra East, Baba Siddiqui was shot multiple times as he was exiting the office of his legislative son, Gishan. The festive atmosphere was marred by gunfire from three assailants who took advantage of the festivities to carry out the attack. Siddiqui was rushed to Lilavati Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
In the aftermath, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang’s brazen entry into Mumbai has instilled a sense of dread among high-profile individuals residing in the city. The incident has particularly impacted celebrities, including Bollywood star Salman Khan, who has seen a significant increase in security measures. Following Siddiqui’s death, Salman Khan’s residence at Galaxy Apartments and his bungalow have been placed under stringent police surveillance, with restrictions on vehicle parking and movement around his properties.
The assassination occurred at a time when law enforcement is already stretched thin, raising questions about the efficacy of Mumbai police’s intelligence and security protocols. In response to the attack, Mumbai Police have intensified security for other notable figures, deploying additional personnel and enhancing their intelligence networks to prevent further incidents. They have also begun reviewing and strengthening existing security arrangements for celebrities, political leaders, and business magnates.
The police have arrested three suspects in connection with Siddiqui’s murder, recovering two 9mm pistols and 29 live cartridges from the scene. However, more than two assailants remain at large, evading capture. The swift action by the authorities to arrest some of the perpetrators has provided a temporary sense of relief, but the unresolved status of the remaining suspects continues to fuel public concern.
Opposition leaders have criticised the Mumbai Police for their handling of the case, questioning how a well-organized gang could execute such a high-profile assassination without the authorities detecting their plans. The incident has sparked a debate about the adequacy of security measures for public figures and the overall effectiveness of the city’s law enforcement agencies.
Baba Siddiqui’s death has not only left a void in the political landscape but also highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by public personalities in Mumbai. The ongoing fear of retaliation or further attacks has led many to call for a comprehensive review of security protocols and better coordination among law enforcement agencies.
As the investigation continues, the Mumbai community remains on high alert, hoping for a swift resolution and enhanced safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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