The Mumbai Crime Branch has identified Mohammad Zeeshan Akhtar as the fourth suspect in the killing of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique. The investigation into the brazen attack, which took place on October 12, has been progressing rapidly, shaking the political landscape.
Prior to identifying Akhtar, authorities arrested a third suspect, Pravin Lonkar, in Pune on Sunday evening. Siddique, a prominent figure, was fatally shot outside his son Zeeshan’s office in Bandra East, an incident that has left the public and political circles in shock. The 66-year-old was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, but sadly, he was declared dead upon arrival. He was later cremated with full state honors at Bada Qabrastan.
Mohammad Zeeshan Akhtar has been identified as a key figure in the crime. According to reports, he coordinated with the shooters from behind the scenes, providing critical information about Siddique’s movements. He also arranged logistical support for the assailants, including securing rental accommodations.
Akhtar, a resident of Shakar village in Nakodar, Jalandhar, has a history of involvement in organized crime. He was arrested in 2022 on charges of murder and robbery but was released in June 2024. While serving time in Patiala Jail, Akhtar allegedly received orders from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to carry out the assassination of Siddique.
Shortly after the murder, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility. Shubham Lonkar, a close associate of the gang, publicly acknowledged their involvement via social media.
Apart from Akhtar, the Mumbai police have already arrested two other suspects: Gurmail Baljit Singh from Haryana and Dharmaraj Rajesh Kashyap from Uttar Pradesh. A third suspect fled the scene, but the investigation is ongoing.
On Sunday, 28-year-old Pravin Lonkar was apprehended in Pune. He is the brother of Shubham Lonkar and is suspected of collaborating with Kashyap and another accused, Shivkumar Gautam, in plotting the murder of Siddique.
A case has been filed at the Nirmal Nagar Police Station by the Mumbai Crime Branch under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Arms Act, and the Maharashtra Police Act. The investigation is expected to continue, with further arrests and revelations likely in the days to come.
