
Mumbai Police Leverage Technology and Teamwork in High-Profile Case
In a meticulously coordinated operation, Mumbai Police apprehended Mohammad Shariful Islam, the prime suspect in the stabbing of Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan. The arrest culminated a 72-hour manhunt involving over 300 officers and the strategic use of digital payment trails.
The Incident
On January 16, 2025, Saif Ali Khan was attacked in his Bandra residence, sustaining a deep wound near his spine. A female staff member also suffered injuries during the assault. Both victims underwent medical treatment and are now reported to be out of danger.
The Investigation
The investigation commenced with the analysis of approximately 600 CCTV footage clips from areas surrounding the crime scene. This extensive surveillance review led officers to a stall near Century Mill in Worli, where the suspect was observed interacting with the stall owner, Naveen Ekka.
The Breakthrough
A pivotal moment in the case occurred when Ekka revealed that the suspect had purchased a paratha and a bottle of water, making the payment via Google Pay. This digital transaction provided investigators with the suspect’s mobile number, enabling them to trace his movements.
The Arrest
Utilizing the mobile number obtained from the UPI transaction, police tracked the suspect to a labor camp in Thane. Despite the phone being switched off, officers coordinated a search operation in a nearby mangrove area. Approximately 100 personnel were involved in the final search, which concluded with the apprehension of Islam, who attempted to flee upon detection.
Suspect’s Background
Investigations revealed that Islam, a 30-year-old Bangladeshi national, had illegally entered India and assumed the alias Bijoy Das. He had been residing on the outskirts of Mumbai for the past five to six months. Initial evidence suggests that the attack on Khan was a result of a botched theft attempt.
Community Concerns
The assault on Saif Ali Khan has raised significant concerns within the Bollywood community regarding security measures for public figures in Mumbai. The incident underscores the need for enhanced protective protocols to ensure the safety of celebrities in their residences.