Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 1: Police in Maharashtra's Palghar district have uncovered an alleged conspiracy to murder a Vasai-based industrialist over a financial dispute involving Rs 32 crore, arresting seven persons, including the alleged mastermind.
According to the Valiv Police, industrialist Mohan Singh Laxman Singh Parmar was allegedly targeted in a planned attack aimed at avoiding repayment of a substantial financial liability and gaining control of his company.
Police identified the alleged mastermind as Sagar Girish Bhanushali, a partner in GSM Foils Limited, located in the Diamond Industrial Estate in Vasai.
Investigators alleged that Bhanushali had received around Rs 32 crore from Parmar after incurring heavy losses in the stock market and falling into debt. They suspect that Parmar's death would have eliminated the repayment obligation and enabled Bhanushali to assume complete control of the company.
The attack took place on the night of July 24 outside the company's premises in the Naikpada area of Vasai East.
Police said two motorcycle-borne assailants opened fire at close range after Parmar stepped out of his office. He sustained a bullet injury to his shoulder and suffered additional serious injuries during the assault.
The alleged shooter has been identified as Sujit Devendrabhai Pandey, while his associate has been identified as Anup Virendra Prajapati.
According to investigators, the firearm allegedly malfunctioned after the first shot was fired, following which the attacker assaulted Parmar with the butt of the pistol before both accused fled the scene.
Parmar was rushed to a private hospital, where he underwent surgery. Police said his condition has improved considerably and he is now stable.
The investigation gathered momentum after police analysed CCTV footage, call detail records and other digital and technical evidence.
During the probe, officers discovered that the motorcycle used in the attack carried a fake registration number plate. A special police team subsequently travelled to Uttar Pradesh and arrested Sujit Pandey, alleged weapon supplier Manoj Thathera and several other accused.
Additional Police Commissioner Sanjay Shintre said the investigation is being carried out using scientific, digital, financial and forensic evidence.
Police are also examining whether a wider financial or organised criminal network may have been involved in the alleged conspiracy.
Investigators described the case as a carefully planned murder-for-gain plot rooted in business rivalry and major financial transactions.
With seven arrests made so far, police said further investigations are underway to identify any additional suspects and uncover possible criminal links connected to the conspiracy.