An alleged lone wolf attacker in Thane, identified as 31-year-old Zaib Zubair Ansari, reportedly demanded that security guards recite a Muslim prayer before he stabbed them. The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) is leading the investigation into the incident, which occurred early on Monday morning.
Investigation into Lone Wolf Attack
According to an officer from the Maharashtra ATS, investigators found notes containing terms such as “ISIS,” “lone wolf,” and “Jihad” at Ansari’s residence in Mira Road. The ATS is examining the possibility that Ansari was radicalised online. Computers and other devices seized from his home are being forensically analysed, although it is suspected that some devices, including his phone, may have been formatted.
The accused, who returned to India from the US in 2019, was apprehended within 90 minutes of the attack. He was initially taken into custody by the Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar police before being handed over to the ATS. Ansari has been remanded in police custody until May 4.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Ansari had been living alone in the Mira Road area since his divorce. He claimed to be earning a living by giving tuition classes, a statement that police are currently verifying. It is also believed that his father, who works as a cab driver in the US, may have been sending him financial support.
Details of the Attack
The incident took place around 4 AM at an under-construction building in the Mira Road area of Thane. The two security guards, identified as Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Ramesh Sen, were on duty when the alleged altercation occurred. According to an official release from the Mira-Bhayander, Vasai-Virar Police Commissionerate, Ansari first stabbed Mishra and then attacked Sen, who was nearby. Mishra is reportedly in critical condition, while Sen is receiving medical treatment. Both were admitted to Wockhardt Hospital.
The accused allegedly questioned the guards about their religion prior to the assault. Investigators are looking into a possible religious motive behind the attack, though a definitive motive has not yet been established. The Maharashtra ATS, along with the National Investigation Agency (NIA), is conducting the investigation, with the state government offering full cooperation.
CCTV footage from the scene played a crucial role in identifying and apprehending Ansari. A case has been registered at the Nayanagar Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including attempt to murder. Given the seriousness and potential scope of the incident, the investigation has been transferred to the ATS.
Right-wing organisations have called for a thorough investigation into the alleged religious angle and for stringent action against the accused. The incident has caused some tension in the area, and authorities have been working to defuse the situation while continuing their investigation.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
