Mira Road ‘Lone Wolf’ Attack: Fadnavis Says Accused Was Radicalised, Targeted Hindus

Mumbai– Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said the man arrested for stabbing two security guards in Mira Road appears to have been “self-radicalised” and had a desire to target members of the Hindu community “in the name of jihad.”

The incident, which took place in Mira Road in Mumbai, is being treated as a suspected “lone wolf” attack by investigators. The accused, identified as Jaib Ansari, allegedly attacked two guards at a construction site after they refused to recite a religious verse. Both victims sustained multiple injuries.

According to Fadnavis, preliminary investigations have revealed that incriminating material and books were recovered from the accused’s residence, pointing towards self-radicalisation. He added that the suspect had lived in the United States for several years before returning to India.

The case has now been handed over to the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad, with assistance from the National Investigation Agency. Authorities are examining the accused’s digital footprint, background, and possible links to extremist ideologies or handlers.

“The scope of the investigation will not be limited to the accused alone. We will also probe individuals or networks behind his radicalisation,” Fadnavis said, adding that the case will be thoroughly investigated to uncover any larger conspiracy.

Police said the accused was arrested within hours of the attack after reviewing CCTV footage. The incident had triggered tension in the area amid rumours of a religious motive, prompting swift deployment of security agencies to maintain order.

Officials are continuing their investigation to determine whether the attack was an isolated act or part of a broader radical network.