The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for the murder of Baba Siddique and threatened anyone who assists actor Salman Khan. This warning comes after shots were fired near Khan’s residence, raising concerns about safety.
Baba Siddique, a three-time MLA and former Maharashtra minister, was killed near his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra East on Saturday night. Speculation about a connection to the Bishnoi gang intensified when a Facebook post by Shibu Lonkar, believed to be an associate of the gang, claimed responsibility for the murder.
In his post, Lonkar stated that Siddique was targeted due to alleged ties to India’s most wanted terrorist, Dawood Ibrahim, and his relationship with Salman Khan. The post also referenced the recent death of Anuj Thapan, a suspect in a shooting incident outside Khan’s house, which Thapan’s family claimed was a result of police torture, despite official reports stating he died by suicide.
“We have no enmity with anyone, but anyone who aids Salman Khan and the Dawood gang should be wary,” Lonkar warned
Baba Siddique was known for hosting lavish parties and played a significant role in reconciling the long-standing feud between Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan at his Iftar party in 2013. Since last year, at least two celebrities have reportedly been attacked by the Bishnoi gang due to their perceived closeness to Khan. Following the shooting, Salman Khan visited Siddique in the hospital and his residence the next day.
In a concerning trend, the Bishnoi gang has also targeted those connected to Salman Khan. In November 2023, shots were fired at Punjabi singer Gippy Grewal’s house in Vancouver after he praised Khan, despite Grewal claiming he had only met Khan twice. Additionally, in September, shots were fired near the home of singer AP Dhillon, connected to the Bishnoi gang after the release of a song featuring Salman Khan.
In light of these threats, security around Salman Khan’s residence, Galaxy Apartments in Bandra, has been tightened. Following a shooting incident on April 14, Khan expressed his belief that the attack was orchestrated by the Bishnoi gang with intentions to harm him and his family.
Security measures have also been increased in Malabar Hill, South Mumbai, where Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar reside. Officials reported enhanced patrolling and roadblocks in the area to ensure safety.
Baba Siddique, who had been a member of Congress for 48 years, switched to Ajit Pawar’s party earlier this year. His murder has sent shockwaves through both political and entertainment circles, prompting widespread concern over safety and security.
