Tiger Shroff Was Not The Original Target: Mumbai Crime Branch
Mumbai Crime Branch reveals Tiger Shroff was a secondary target after shooters failed to breach another celebrity's high security.
In a shocking revelation, the Mumbai Crime Branch has disclosed that Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff was not the primary target in the terrifying firing incident that took place on October 18, 2026. According to investigators, the assailants had initially set their sights on another prominent Bollywood celebrity, but were forced to pivot their plan due to the insurmountable security surrounding the original target.
A Change of Plans: Why Tiger Shroff?
The investigation reveals a chilling detail: the shooters perceived Tiger Shroff as a "more accessible target" compared to the first celebrity they intended to hit. Finding the high-level security of their primary target too risky, the three suspects shifted their focus to the actor.
The attack was violent and sudden. DCP Raj Tilak Roshan of the Mumbai Crime Branch stated that the assailants fired five to six rounds at Shroff’s vehicle. While the actor miraculously escaped without injury, the incident left two others wounded—his driver, Firdous, and a bystander who was operating an autorickshaw nearby.
The Arrest and the Escape Plot
The law caught up with the suspects quickly. On October 19, 2026, police arrested three individuals in Kota, Rajasthan, just as they were allegedly preparing to flee toward Nepal via Delhi. The arrested suspects have been identified as:
- Hritik Kumar (22), a resident of Begusarai, Bihar.
- Rehan, alias Sukka (18), from Sonipat, Haryana.
- Phool Singh (18), also from Sonipat, Haryana.
Cold Calculation: The Reconnaissance
The attack was not a random act of violence but a planned operation. During interrogation, the accused admitted to conducting reconnaissance at a football ground in Juhu on October 11. To prove their progress to their handlers and get the "green signal" to proceed, the suspects recorded a video of Tiger Shroff during this visit.
Gang Links and Government Response
The case has now been handed over to the Anti-Extortion Cell, which is digging deeper into the conspiracy. Investigators are currently probing potential links between the shooters and the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Additionally, a handler identified as Anil Pandit is under scrutiny.
The incident has sparked a strong reaction from the state leadership. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has issued a stern warning, pledging that the state will track down the masterminds behind the attack, regardless of where they are hiding. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited the victim's family to offer support and ensure their ongoing safety.
Next Steps for the Accused
The three suspects are currently being transported to Mumbai under a transit warrant. They face severe legal repercussions, including charges of attempted murder and violations of the Arms Act.