Shubham Lonkar trains with AK-57 rifle in Naxal territory
- Investigators discovered Shubham Lonkar trained with an AK-57 rifle in Jharkhand's Gumla district.
- Lonkar's accomplices were only learning to handle the rifle, while it is reported that the firearm was sourced from Naxalite groups.
- Authorities aim to uncover potential links between criminal gangs and Naxalite organizations as they pursue the fugitive and investigate further.
In a recent investigation, the Mumbai Crime Branch revealed a significant breakthrough in the Baba Siddique murder case involving fugitive Shubham Lonkar. Authorities uncovered that Lonkar practiced shooting with an AK-57 rifle in Champatoli village, located in Jharkhand's Gumla district, a region known for its Naxal activities. This event took place during a five-day trip where Lonkar and his accomplices traveled from Pune to the dense forests of Jharkhand, away from prying eyes and the sound of gunfire that could attract attention. During their time in Champatoli, it was discovered that while Lonkar engaged in extensive shooting drills, accomplices Rupesh Mohol and Gaurav Apune were merely learning to handle the weapon, indicating a clear hierarchy in their operation. The investigators revealed that the AK-57 rifle was acquired from Naxalite sources, stirring further inquiries into the connections between organized crime syndicates and local Naxal groups. The revelation raises serious concerns about the availability of sophisticated weaponry among criminal elements. Initial investigations suggested that the firearms training was not just for practice but possibly a preparation for a targeted assassination of a prominent leader in Pune, noted by Crime Branch sources. This potential Plan B indicates the depth and reach of the conspiracy that might extend beyond just the murder case of Baba Siddique. The Mumbai Crime Branch is now collaborating with Jharkhand Police to trace Shubham Lonkar and investigate any deeper ties to Naxal operations in the area. The authorities are preparing visits to the suspected hideouts to track down arms supply chains and to prevent further escalation of such conspiracies. The connection between criminal gangs and Naxalites poses a significant threat to public safety and perpetuates the cycle of violence in the region. This case illustrates an emerging trend that could have worrying implications for law enforcement and civil stability.