In a shocking development, new details have emerged in the murder case of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique. Shubham Lonkar, who claimed responsibility for the killing on social media on behalf of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, reportedly supplied weapons to the assassins. His brother, Pravin Lonkar, provided crucial financial and logistical support to the shooters.
The 66-year-old NCP leader was fatally shot on Saturday night while leaving his Bandra West office. Six bullets were fired, with three striking Siddique, who was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Shooters to get Rs 50k to kill Baba Siddique
Sources reveal that multiple planning meetings took place in Pune, involving the Lonkar brothers and several accomplices. An investigator familiar with the case stated, “There was no fixed amount promised, but they were assured a big reward.” Each shooter received an initial sum of Rs 50,000 for operational expenses.
Contrary to initial speculation, police have confirmed that Baba Siddique, not his son Zeeshan, was the primary target. The assassins were provided with a photograph and a flex banner to identify their mark.
The shooters arrived in Mumbai in September, with Dharmaraj and Shiv Kumar preceding Gurmail Singh, who joined later from Haryana. The attack occurred from a close range of six to seven feet. Dharmaraj reportedly used pepper spray to create a diversion during their escape.
Bishnoi gang involved, who was the mastermind?
Authorities are currently verifying the authenticity of social media posts claiming responsibility for the murder, reaching out to Facebook and Instagram for confirmation of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang’s involvement.
The investigation continues as police search for two key suspects still at large: Shiv and the alleged mastermind, Mohammad Zeeshan Akhtar.
This case has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political landscape, raising serious questions about security and organized crime in the region.
