Mumbai: A joint operation by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) and the Mumbai Crime Branch has led to the arrest of a suspect in connection with the firing outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence earlier this year.
The accused, identified as Pradeep Kumar, also known as Gaath, was arrested from the Chhadami Mattha area along the Agra-Etah road under the Bah police station limits in Agra.
February firing incident in Mumbai
The incident took place in February outside Shetty Tower, located in Juhu, Mumbai. According to police, unidentified gunmen opened fire at the building, with bullets hitting the glass railing of the filmmaker’s balcony.
No injuries were reported in the incident, but security around the residence was tightened immediately following the attack.
Gang involvement and motive
Investigators have linked the firing to the Shubham Lonkar gang. Officials said the attack was allegedly carried out on the gang’s instructions as part of an extortion attempt and to create fear within the film industry and the public.
Police believe the act was intended to establish the gang’s presence and influence.
Arrest after coordinated operation
The arrest was made following technical surveillance and intelligence sharing between the Mumbai Crime Branch and the Uttar Pradesh STF. The operation was conducted under the supervision of STF officials in Agra.
After being apprehended, the accused was handed over to the Mumbai Police at the Bah police station for further investigation.
Confession and accomplices named
During preliminary interrogation, Pradeep Kumar allegedly confessed to his involvement in the firing. He also named three associates—Sunny, Deepu, and Sonu—as part of the operation.
Police said efforts are under way to trace and apprehend the remaining suspects.
Multiple arrests already made
Authorities confirmed that eight individuals had already been arrested in connection with the case prior to this development. Among them are Pradeep Sharma, Deepak, and Vishnu Kushwaha.
The case has been registered under multiple provisions, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Arms Act, the Maharashtra Police Act, and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
Filmmaker reacts with humour
Weeks after the incident, Rohit Shetty addressed the situation with a touch of humour on social media. In a post, he remarked that after years of making action and comedy films, his real life now seemed to mirror the same.
Work continues amid controversy
Despite the incident, Shetty has continued with his professional commitments. He is currently busy filming Golmaal 5, which went on floors on his 52nd birthday, March 14, 2026.
The film marks the return of actor Sharman Joshi to the franchise and also features Akshay Kumar in the cast.
Conclusion
The arrest of Pradeep Kumar marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the firing outside Rohit Shetty’s residence. With several accused already in custody and more being pursued, police are continuing efforts to dismantle the network behind the attack.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring safety and preventing organised crime from targeting public figures and the film industry.
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