New Delhi:Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said the stabbing of two security guards in Thane is being treated as a suspected “lone wolf” attack, with investigators examining possible self-radicalisation of the accused. Fadnavis noted that preliminary findings suggest the attacker may have been influenced by extremist ideology and intended to target members of the Hindu community in the name of jihad. Authorities recovered books and other incriminating material from his residence, he added, pointing out that the accused had recently returned from the United States.
“This appears to be a case of self-radicalisation,” Fadnavis said, adding that the probe will also look into whether any larger network or conspiracy played a role.
"Some books and incriminating material were recovered from the accused's residence. He lived in the United States and had recently returned. Preliminary investigations have revealed that he was radicalised and had a desire to attack members of the Hindu community in the name of jihad, which led him to carry out this incident," said Fadnavis.
He said the investigation is being carried out jointly by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad and the National Investigation Agency, with the state government extending full cooperation. “The scope of the investigation will not be limited to the accused. It will also examine individuals or networks that may have contributed to his radicalisation. The entire case will be thoroughly investigated to uncover any possible conspiracy,” he added.
The statement follows the early Monday attack in Naya Nagar, Mira Road, on the outskirts of Mumbai, where a 31-year-old man allegedly stabbed two guards.
Police identified the accused as Jabar Zubair Ansari. According to investigators, he initially approached the guards seeking directions before returning and questioning them about their religion. He allegedly forced one of them to recite the Islamic kalma and when the guard failed to do so, attacked both men with a sharp weapon.
The victims, Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Ramesh Sen, suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital. Mishra remains in critical condition, while Sen is undergoing treatment.
Police said the accused was arrested within 90 minutes of the attack after being identified through CCTV footage. A case of attempted murder has been registered, and the ATS has taken over the probe.
During searches at his residence, officials reportedly found handwritten notes in which he expressed a desire to join the Islamic State and described the attack as a “first step.” Investigators are also analysing digital evidence to determine whether he had any links to extremist handlers or networks.
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