Mumbai, India — In a chilling aftermath of a high-profile political assassination, Mumbai police have apprehended Shivkumar Gautham, the suspected lead gunman in the killing of veteran Maharashtra politician Baba Siddique. According to authorities, Gautham stayed in Mumbai after committing the crime to ensure Siddique’s demise outside a local hospital.
Gautham, now under police custody, recounted how he discreetly mingled with the crowds at Lilavati Hospital after changing his attire post-attack to confirm Siddique’s critical condition before finally departing the premises. His arrest was a joint operation by Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh police in UP, where he was allegedly planning an escape to Nepal.
The violent incident unfolded on October 12, during Dussehra celebrations at the office of Siddique’s son, Zeeshan. Allegedly executed by three gunmen linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, the attack was camouflaged by the festive firecrackers. Although police quickly captured two assailants, Gautham managed to flee.
The Bishnoi gang has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack, suggesting a motive tied to Siddique’s connections with Bollywood actor Salman Khan. The gang has previously threatened Khan, following his conviction in a wildlife poaching case.
In the sweep that led to Gautham’s capture, police also detained four individuals on charges of harboring him: Anurag Kashyap, Gyan Prakash Tripathi, Akash Srivastava, and Akhilendra Pratap Singh. Courts have mandated that the suspects remain in custody until November 19.
As investigations deepen, police have already arrested 23 people related to the case. Meanwhile, the incident has stirred discussions on the influence of criminal gangs in political spheres and their impact on public safety and democracy in India.
The murder of Baba Siddique has sent ripples through Maharashtra’s political landscape, drawing attention to the security vulnerabilities faced by public figures and the deep-seated issues of organized crime in the region. Authorities continue to unravel the complex web of connections and motives behind the assassination, as the community mourns the loss of a prominent leader.