Investigators probing the October 18 firing incident targeting actor Tiger Shroff suspect that the alleged shooters remained in constant contact with their handler and received real-time updates about the police investigation, including information aired on television news channels.
According to sources, the accused communicated with their handler through phone calls and internet-based messaging applications during and after the attack. When footage of the shooting and images of the suspects began circulating in news reports, one of the accused, Rehan Ansari, allegedly received instructions to leave the area.
Investigators suspect that an unidentified person monitored television coverage and relayed information to the accused, enabling them to change their movements in response to developments in the case. The identity of the person who allegedly supplied these updates remains under investigation.
Police sources suspect that Anil Pandit, believed to be in the United States, or recently arrested suspects Ankit Khattak and Sameer Khatri may have played a role in directing Rehan through internet-based communication platforms. Investigators have reportedly recovered photographs, videos and details of conversations from the accused.
After the firing, the three alleged shooters reportedly fled on motorcycles before travelling by train and cab. A routine phone conversation between one suspect and a cab driver allegedly provided a crucial lead. Acting on information shared by Mumbai Police, the suspects were subsequently arrested aboard a train in Kota, Rajasthan.
Ten people have been arrested in connection with the case so far. The three alleged shooters — Phool Singh, 18, Rehan Rahimuddin Ansari, 18, and Hrithik Mahato, 22 — remain in police custody until October 31.
The Crime Branch is also investigating suspected links involving Randeep Malik, described by sources as an associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, and alleged reconnaissance of locations associated with Shroff in Mumbai, including areas of Juhu and Bandra.
Sources further said the accused allegedly discussed testing the firearm before the attack. During interrogation, they reportedly cited Shroff’s praise for actor Salman Khan at an event as one reason for targeting him. However, investigators have not conclusively established the motive.
Shroff is reportedly deeply shaken by the incident and has told police that he had no personal enmity with anyone and did not know who was responsible. His formal statement is yet to be recorded, with officers indicating that the actor was distressed after the firing.