Over 20 children rescued after dramatic hostage situation in Mumbai’s Powai

Panic struck Mumbaikars as several children were taken hostage at a studio in Powai area on Thursday. 

The incident took place at RA Studio, where acting auditions were going on. The accused Rohit Arya conducted auditions of nearly 100 children who arrived at the studio and he allowed around 80 to leave on Thursday. However, over 20 children of around 15-year-old confined inside.

Mumbai police rescued the children after apprehending the accused.

According to a video released by the accused, he had a “plan” with “moral” and “ethical” demands.

“I am Rohit Arya, instead of committing suicide, I have made a plan and held a few children as hostages. I don’t have many demands but they are moral and ethical. I have questions for a few people and ask some counter questions as well, but I need answers,” said Arya in the video.

Arya went on to say, “I am not a terrorist, I don’t want money, I just want simple conversations”.

“Police acted swiftly, ensuring the safe rescue of all the children. The kidnapper has been apprehended and is currently in police custody,” said Mumbai police.

“All the children are safe,” said joint commissioner of police Satyanarayan.