Security Guards Stabbed in Mumbai: Investigation Underway

A violent incident in Mira Road, situated in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, has led to the stabbing of two security guards, raising alarm among local authorities and prompting a high-level investigation. The attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at an under-construction building near a hospital, where the guards were stationed. According to police reports, a 31-year-old man named Zaib Zubair Ansari approached the guards, identified as Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Sen, and questioned them about their religious beliefs.

Following this, Ansari allegedly requested the guards to recite the 'Kalma', an Islamic declaration of faith. When the guards did not comply, he is said to have produced a knife and attacked them. One guard suffered severe injuries, while the other received minor wounds. They were swiftly transported to a local hospital, where both are currently reported to be in stable condition.

Police responded rapidly, utilising CCTV footage to track Ansari, who was arrested within 90 minutes of the incident. The case has since been taken over by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis commented on the situation, suggesting that it reflects a case of self-radicalisation. He stated that disturbing materials had been found at Ansari’s home, including books potentially linked to extremist ideologies. Reports indicate that Ansari had been living in the United States prior to his recent return to India.

Fadnavis emphasised that preliminary investigations suggested Ansari had a radical agenda, targeting members of the Hindu community in the name of jihad.

“This appears to be a case of self-radicalisation. Some books and incriminating material were recovered from the accused's residence,” Fadnavis said. “The scope of the investigation will extend beyond Ansari to explore any networks that may have contributed to his radicalisation.”

Authorities are urging the public to remain calm and to refrain from spreading unverified information, affirming their commitment to conduct a thorough investigation. The case continues to unfold as the ATS, in coordination with the National Investigation Agency, delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding this alarming incident.