Court Extends Custody in Bollywood Director's Shooting Case

A special court has extended police custody for five accused linked to the shooting at filmmaker Rohit Shetty's residence until February 23. The extension allows for joint interrogation with others involved in the case. The shooting was allegedly orchestrated by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.

A special court has extended the police custody of five individuals accused in the shooting incident at Bollywood director Rohit Shetty's residence. The custody, now extended until February 23, is critical for conducting a joint interrogation with other apprehended suspects, as ruled by the special Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) court on Tuesday.

To date, the police have arrested 12 individuals in connection with the case. This includes seven individuals captured from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh last Sunday, who have been remanded in custody until February 25. The recent order to extend custody pertains to Aditya Gayaki (19), Siddharth Yenpure (20), Samarth Pomaji (18), Swapnil Sakat (23), and Asaram Fasale.

The defense counsel opposed the extension, arguing that ample time has been given for questioning. However, the court recognized the need for further inquiry into the money trail and equipment utilized in the crime. Notably, the attack was reportedly conducted under the guidance of Shubham Lonkar, a member of the infamous Lawrence Bishnoi gang, aimed at threatening the filmmaker.

(With inputs from agencies.)