On Monday, Mumbai Police’s Crime Branch arrested Pravin Lonkar from Pune in connection with the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique. According to police officials, Pravin Lonkar is the brother of Shubham Lonkar, who posted on social media claiming that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang had taken responsibility for the assassination. Shubham Lonkar remains on the run.
Authorities allege that Pravin Lonkar provided shelter to the two previously arrested suspects in Pune. Meanwhile, the ossification test conducted on Dharmaraj Kashyap, another accused in the murder case, confirmed that he is not a minor, contradicting earlier claims made by his lawyer. Following the test results, Kashyap was presented in court, which extended his police custody until October 21.
Kashyap and Shivkumar Gautam are believed to have been recruited by Shubham Lonkar and Pravin Lonkar to carry out the attack on Siddique. The NCP leader was shot outside his office in Nirmal Nagar, sustaining multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital but succumbed to his injuries on Saturday night. His funeral was held on Sunday with full state honors at Bada Qabrastan in Mumbai.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences, calling the murder “unfortunate and sad.” He assured that strict action would be taken against all involved, including any connections to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang or other underworld figures. “The absconding suspect will be arrested soon, and the safety of those receiving threats will be ensured by the state,” Shinde added.