Security agencies have uncovered a shocking plot within the Bollywood film industry, revealing that the Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate's hitlist extended far beyond superstar Salman Khan. Investigators have disclosed that veteran actor Sanjay Dutt and action star Tiger Shroff were also direct targets of the criminal network, with gang operatives dispatched to conduct reconnaissance on their movements. These alarming revelations have shed light on the extensive web of surveillance orchestrated by the syndicate.
Shooters Arrived From Haryana
According to investigators, two alleged shooters linked to the gang traveled from Sonipat, Haryana, to Mumbai to execute the sinister plan. The suspects, identified as 19-year-olds Rehan and Phool Singh, arrived in Mumbai during the final week of September carrying an illegal country-made firearm procured in Madhya Pradesh. However, on the day they conducted their recce operations, they left the weapon behind at their hotel room to avoid immediate suspicion. They operated under strict instructions from their handlers.
Heavy Security at Galaxy Apartments
During the first week of October, the two operatives arrived outside Salman Khan’s residence, Galaxy Apartments, located in Bandra. Acting on directives from the gang’s primary handler, Anil Pandit, they scouted the premises to evaluate the security setup. Upon observing the multi-layered security detail guarding the actor, they used an encrypted application to inform Pandit that a direct assault on Salman Khan was unfeasible. Consequently, Pandit instructed them to survey the homes of other prominent Bollywood stars and record detailed footage.
Auto-Rickshaw Ride to Track Other Stars
Leaving the vicinity of Galaxy Apartments, the two shooters hired an auto-rickshaw to search for alternative targets. The auto driver agreed to transport them across various celebrity residences for a fare of 400 rupees. The pair initially visited the homes of Aamir Khan and Emraan Hashmi before heading to Sanjay Dutt’s residence in Pali Hill, which served as their final stop for the day. Upon reaching the location, they attempted to ascertain whether Sanjay Dutt was inside by questioning locals in the area. However, they gathered no solid information, and large trees near the main entrance obstructed visibility, making surveillance difficult.
Digital Surveillance via Social Media
Failing to obtain direct intelligence from the physical location, the operatives turned to digital platforms. They browsed YouTube videos and Instagram reels featuring Sanjay Dutt to identify his residential floor, the vehicles he used, and his entourage. They attempted to match the cars visible in the online footage with vehicles parked outside the building. Despite their efforts, they were unable to confirm the actor's exact vehicle or residential floor, eventually abandoning the spot empty-handed.
Targeting Associates Due to Close Ties
Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan share a decades-long friendship and professional history. Sources close to the investigation indicate that when the syndicate realized a direct attack on Salman Khan was difficult to execute, they sought to exert pressure by targeting his close friends and associates. A similar pattern was previously observed in the high-profile murder case of Baba Siddique. Additionally, the gang perceived Dutt as an accessible target due to his historical legal complications.
Shift in Focus Toward Tiger Shroff
After reviewing the reconnaissance footage sent by the shooters, handler Anil Pandit directed them to abandon other targets and focus entirely on Tiger Shroff. During interrogation, the suspects revealed that Pandit informed them Tiger Shroff regularly visits the grounds near Jamnabai Narsee International School, close to Pushpa Park in Juhu, every Sunday. Furthermore, he reportedly lacked a heavy security cover during these visits. Law enforcement agencies are currently conducting an extensive probe into the wider network and its upcoming objectives.
