A UK-based associate of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi allegedly commissioned a hit on stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui, according to a probe by central intelligence agencies.
The hit was outsourced to two men in Delhi by Rohit Godara, a UK-based gangster connected to Bishnoi’s network.
The case came to light during an investigation into the murder of Afghan gym owner Nadir Shah in Greater Kailash 1 on September 13. One of the shooters involved in Shah’s murder, who had been recruited by Godara, was arrested by Haryana’s Special Task Force in an unrelated case. During interrogation, he revealed the plot targeting Faruqui, reported The Indian Express.
After Shah’s murder, police arrested 10 people and discovered Bishnoi’s involvement. During questioning, some of the suspects mentioned conducting a reconnaissance of a hotel in New Friends Colony, though they were unaware of the target at that time.
Central intelligence agencies later informed Delhi Police that a Muslim comedian was on Bishnoi’s hit list, although they did not initially know it was Faruqui. When Delhi Police checked the hotel records in New Friends Colony, they found Faruqui’s name listed as a guest. He was in Delhi to participate in the Entertainers Cricket League.
Upon learning of the threat, police immediately met Faruqui at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium and alerted him to the danger. Faruqui then returned to Mumbai, where he was provided security by both Delhi and Mumbai police.
Further investigation revealed that two individuals, who had recently been released on bail, were staying at a nearby hotel in Nehru Place. The arrested shooter claimed he was contacted by Godara and tasked with eliminating Faruqui. He and his accomplice conducted surveillance on Faruqui in both Mumbai and Delhi. While the shooter has been arrested, his accomplice remains at large.