Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 19: Mumbai Police have arrested Mohammad Shariful Islam Shahzad, 30, in connection with the attack on Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan. The arrest was made in Thane, Maharashtra, following a joint operation by the police. Shahzad, suspected to be of Bangladeshi origin, was reportedly living in Mumbai under the alias Vijay Das after entering India illegally five to six months ago.
The incident occurred on January 16, when the attacker entered Saif's Bandra residence with the intent of robbery. Saif struggled with the assailant, who stabbed the actor six times before fleeing. Saif was rushed to Lilavati Hospital and underwent multiple surgeries, and he is now said to be out of danger.
Police identified the attacker through CCTV footage, which showed him buying headphones in Dadar hours after the assault. The attacker was caught near the Hiranandani Estate in Kasarvadavali, about 35 km from Saif's residence.
Saif's domestic staff member, Lima, was the first to spot the attacker and tried to stop him, suffering injuries in the process. Saif’s wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan, stated that the attacker was aggressive and repeatedly stabbed Saif, but did not touch any of the visible jewelry.
Shahzad, who previously worked at a Mumbai pub, will be presented in court on Sunday for remand, as the investigation continues.