Mira Road Knife Attack: Suspect Asked Religion, Kalma Before Stabbing Guards; ATS Probes ‘Lone Wolf’ Angle

NewsFlash Daily™

28 April

Mumbai ATS investigates chilling pre-dawn attack in Naya Nagar, note recovered from accused mentions ISIS, jihad and Gaza, raising serious security concerns

Mumbai: A shocking knife attack in Mumbai’s Mira Road area has triggered a high-level investigation after a man allegedly questioned two security guards about their religion and asked them to recite the Kalma before stabbing them in the early hours of Sunday.

The case has now been handed over to the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), with investigators probing a possible “lone wolf” attack angle following the recovery of a disturbing note from the accused.

Attack in Naya Nagar Leaves Guards Injured

The incident occurred around 4:00 a.m. in Naya Nagar, Mira Road, where two security guards, identified as Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Sen, were on duty at an under-construction building.

According to police, the accused, Zubair Ansari (31), approached the guards and asked for their names and religion, followed by a demand to recite the Kalma. When the guards said they could not, he allegedly pulled out a knife and attacked them.

Both victims sustained injuries, with one reported to be seriously hurt, though officials confirmed they are now in stable condition.

Accused Arrested Within Hours Using CCTV Evidence

Police acted swiftly and apprehended the accused within hours, using CCTV footage and local intelligence inputs. The arrest prevented further escalation and allowed investigators to quickly secure crucial evidence.

Note Mentions ISIS, Jihad, Gaza; Raises Alarm

A handwritten note recovered from the accused has raised serious concerns among security agencies. According to sources, the note contained references to terms such as “ISIS”, “lone wolf”, “jihad”, and “Gaza”, along with threatening statements.

The note reportedly included lines suggesting future attacks and ideological motivations, intensifying the gravity of the case.

“No possibility can be ruled out at this stage. We are investigating all possible motives behind the attack.”

ATS Probing Motive, Digital Footprint Under Scanner

The Mumbai ATS is now conducting a comprehensive investigation, examining whether the attack was pre-planned or spontaneous. Officials are analysing the accused’s mobile devices, browsing history, and communication records to determine any links or external influence.

Investigators are also probing whether the accused acted entirely alone or had any ideological or operational connections.

Security Concerns Heightened After Early Morning Attack

The timing and nature of the attack have heightened security concerns, especially as it occurred in a residential area with ongoing construction activity.

Authorities are maintaining that all angles, including radicalisation and personal motive, are being thoroughly examined.