More than 40 hours after actor Saif Ali Khan was stabbed in a daring attack at his Bandra (West) residence, Mumbai Police are yet to apprehend the suspect, who is believed to be a “hardened criminal.” Investigators suspect the accused changed his clothes to mislead authorities after fleeing the crime scene.
Massive Manhunt Underway
At least two dozen teams from the local police, Crime Branch, and Crime Intelligence Unit are involved in the search for the perpetrator. On Friday morning, the Bandra police detained a man resembling the suspect caught on CCTV at Saif’s building. However, after five hours of questioning, he was released as investigators confirmed he had no connection to the case.
Police also interrogated a carpenter who had recently worked at Saif’s building and other workers, but no solid leads emerged.
Key Breakthrough from CCTV Footage
Later in the day, investigators made progress by identifying the suspect on another CCTV near Lucky Junction, where he was seen wearing a light blue half-sleeve shirt. In the initial footage from the fire exit at Satguru Sharan building, the suspect was dressed in a black half-sleeve T-shirt.
“The fact that the accused changed clothes suggests he may be a hardened criminal,” an officer stated. Authorities have now intensified their efforts, reviewing CCTVs at nearby railway stations.
The suspect was seen using a red scarf and cap to obscure his face and evade cameras, complicating the identification process. Despite circulating the suspect’s photo among Mumbai’s 40,000-strong police force, retired officers, taxi unions, and auto unions, no one has recognized him so far.
Investigation Focuses on Drug Links
In parallel, investigators are exploring a potential connection between the suspect and drug-related offenses. Multiple individuals with prior drug charges who resemble the accused have been questioned, but no concrete evidence has emerged.
Crime Scene Details
Preliminary investigations suggest the intruder entered the premises by jumping over the back gate of the building. He then used the fire exit stairs, avoiding most CCTV cameras. Footage captured him climbing barefoot to the upper floors at 1:38 a.m., with his face covered.
Mumbai Police continue their relentless efforts to track down the elusive suspect as the high-profile case gains public attention.
