Saif Ali Khan Attack: Mumbai Police Reveals Bengal Connection
Kolkata, January 21 – A surprising Bengal connection has surfaced in the case of the attack on Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, as revealed by the Mumbai Police. The accused, identified as Shariful Islam Shahzad, is reportedly a Bangladeshi national who illegally entered India and spent time in West Bengal before attempting to procure an Aadhaar card.
Illegal Entry and West Bengal Stay
According to the police, Shariful Islam illegally crossed into India approximately seven months ago via the Dawki River, located along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya. After entering the country, he traveled to West Bengal, where he sought employment and attempted to obtain Indian identification documents.
Sim Card Acquisition in Bengal
During his time in West Bengal, Shariful allegedly acquired an Indian SIM card using the credentials of a local woman.
- Mumbai Police Collaboration: Mumbai authorities have shared these findings with the West Bengal Police, requesting their assistance in locating the woman who helped Shariful acquire the SIM card.
- The SIM card was reportedly used by the accused to contact his family in Bangladesh while residing in Mumbai.
Mumbai Stay and Actor Targeting
After arriving in Mumbai, Shariful began working in places that did not require formal citizenship documentation.
- Contractor Connection: Shariful came into contact with a local contractor, Amit Pandey, who helped him secure various jobs in the city.
- Before targeting Saif Ali Khan, Shariful was spotted loitering near the bungalow of another Bollywood actor in Bandra.
Family and Background
In police custody, Shariful disclosed details about his background:
- He studied up to the 12th grade in Bangladesh.
- He has two brothers, one of whom resides in Bangladesh.
- He regularly contacted his family while in India, using the SIM card acquired in West Bengal.
Police Investigation
The Mumbai Police has stated that Shariful attempted to infiltrate Saif Ali Khan’s residence. While the motive remains unclear, his movements are being scrutinized. A Mumbai Police team is set to travel to West Bengal to further investigate his activities during his stay in the state.
Collaboration Between States
Mumbai Police’s revelations have raised concerns about the security loopholes that allowed a Bangladeshi national to acquire Indian identification and infiltrate urban centers undetected. West Bengal Police is expected to assist in identifying the local networks that may have facilitated Shariful’s illegal activities.
