Mumbai stabbing case under lens for possible communal motive, ATS launches probe

A 31-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly stabbing two security guards in the Mira Bhayander area near Mumbai. The incident happened early Monday morning in Nayanagar, Mira Road East.

The accused, Zaib Zubair Ansari reportedly attacked the guards, Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Sen, around 4 am at an under-construction site where they were on duty. Mishra suffered serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital, while Sen received minor injuries and later filed a complaint.

Police from Nayanagar police station reportedly registered a case against the accused under attempted murder and other charges. Officials said they checked the CCTV footage from nearby areas and were able to identify and arrest Ansari within an hour.

Initially the case was being jointly investigated by local police and the Thane ATS. Later, the case was reportedly handed over to the Mumbai ATS for further probe. Police have also added charges related to promoting enmity between groups, which has led to speculation about a possible religious angle. However, officials have not confirmed this yet.

Sources claim that the accused first argued with Mishra and allegedly asked him to say a religious slogan. When Mishra refused, a fight broke out, and he was stabbed. Ansari then attacked Sen as well.

Ansari had been living in the area for around six years. As per reports, he studied Chemistry in the United States and returned to India in 2019. Police teams also searched his residence, which is located close to the crime spot.

Authorities have asked people to stay calm and not spread rumours while the investigation continues.

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