In a significant development, the Mumbai Crime Branch, comprising a 12-member team, successfully retrieved a firearm believed to be associated with the recent shooting incident outside the residence of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. The recovery took place in the Tapi River located in Surat, amidst an intensive search operation conducted on Monday, officials confirmed. Furthermore, efforts are underway to locate another firearm purportedly carried by the perpetrators involved in the alarming incident.

Extensive Search Operation in Surat Yields Crucial Evidence

Led by senior police inspector Daya Nayak, the Mumbai Crime Branch collaborated with local authorities from Surat, along with the assistance of divers and fishermen, to scour the Tapi river. This joint effort aimed to recover crucial evidence related to the shooting incident that occurred earlier this month outside Khan's residence, the Galaxy Apartment, situated in the Bandra area of Mumbai.

Accused Identified: Vicky Gupta and Sagar Pal

The investigation has shed light on the identities of the alleged perpetrators, Vicky Gupta (24) and Sagar Pal (21), who were apprehended last week from a temple in Bhuj. Gupta and Pal stand accused of orchestrating the gunfire directed at Khan's residence. According to authorities, the duo carried two firearms with them during the commission of the crime.

Insights from Police Officials

Police officials revealed that the search operation was initiated based on the disclosure made by Gupta and Pal during interrogation. The accused admitted to disposing of the weapons in the Tapi river while making their escape to Bhuj. Although both individuals were armed, only Pal utilized the firearm to carry out the attack on Khan's residence, as captured in video footage.

Unveiling the Motive Behind the Shooting

Preliminary findings from the investigation suggest that Gupta and Pal acted upon the instructions of notorious gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and his younger brother Anmol. Both Bishnoi brothers have been identified as "wanted accused" in connection with the case. It is speculated that the motive behind the shooting was to instil fear and intimidate the actor, potentially facilitating extortion activities.

Legal Proceedings and Future Course of Action

The Mumbai Crime Branch is poised to take custody of Lawrence Bishnoi for further interrogation, as part of ongoing efforts to gather substantial evidence. Currently incarcerated at Sabarmati Central Jail in Gujarat, Bishnoi's interrogation is expected to yield vital insights into the orchestration of the shooting incident. Meanwhile, Anmol Bishnoi is believed to be evading authorities, possibly residing in the United States or Portugal.

In conclusion, the recovery of the firearm from the Tapi River marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the shooting incident outside Salman Khan's residence. As law enforcement agencies intensify their efforts to apprehend all individuals involved, the case continues to unravel, shedding light on the intricate web of criminal activities within the entertainment industry.