The ongoing investigation into the October 18 firing targeting Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff has uncovered a sophisticated communication network in which the three alleged shooters remained in constant contact with their handler through phone calls and messages — and were reportedly fed real-time updates about the police investigation, including information aired on television news channels.

How the Handler Coordinated the Escape

According to investigative sources, the shooters were in active communication with their handler both during and after the attack on 18 October. When footage of the incident and images of the suspects — captured by vloggers on the scene — began circulating on news broadcasts, one of the accused, Rehan Rahimuddin Ansari (18), received messages instructing him to leave the area immediately.

Investigators believe an unidentified individual was monitoring television news coverage and relaying relevant information to the accused in near-real time. The identity of this person has not yet been established, and tracing the full communication network remains a key focus of the probe.

Internet Calls, Changed Travel Plans, Key Arrest Lead

The accused allegedly relied on Internet-based calling applications rather than conventional mobile networks, making it significantly harder for investigators to trace their communications. They also reportedly changed their travel plans and modes of transport in direct response to information about police movements.

After the firing, the three alleged shooters fled on motorcycles before dispersing to different locations by train and cab. Ironically, it was a routine phone conversation between one of the accused and a cab driver that reportedly handed investigators a critical lead. Acting on information from the Mumbai Police, the three suspects were subsequently arrested aboard a train in Kota, Rajasthan.

Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Link and Reconnaissance in Mumbai

According to sources in the Mumbai Crime Branch, Randeep Malik, reportedly an associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, is believed to have connected accused Rehan Ansari with Anil Pandit, who is believed to be based in the United States. Another accused, identified only as Kunal, is also suspected of having come into contact with Pandit through Malik.

Investigators further suspect that individuals who conducted advance reconnaissance in Mumbai sent photographs of locations associated with the actor to Pandit and Malik. These reportedly included Tiger Shroff's football ground and several locations in the Juhu and Bandra areas of Mumbai. Police sources said investigators also suspect that Ankit Khattak and Sameer Khatri — recently arrested in Sonipat — or Pandit may have directed Rehan through Internet-based communication platforms.

Motive Under Scrutiny, Aarey Colony Firearm Test Claim

During interrogation, the accused allegedly claimed that Tiger Shroff's public praise of actor Salman Khan at an event was among the reasons behind the decision to target him. Investigators are examining these claims, and the Crime Branch has not yet conclusively established a motive.

Sources said the accused allegedly discussed testing their firearm before carrying out the attack. Accused Hrithik Mahato (22) reportedly suggested the forests of Aarey Colony for this purpose, as his experience working as a Rapido rider in Mumbai had made him familiar with the area.

Tiger Shroff's Statement and Current Status of Arrests

Tiger Shroff is said to have been deeply disturbed by the incident. According to a Crime Branch officer, the actor told police during preliminary discussions that he was shocked and had never anticipated that his car would be targeted. He reportedly told investigators he had no personal enmity with anyone and was unaware of who the attackers were or their motive.

His formal statement has not yet been recorded, as officers noted he was distressed following the attack. Police are expected to record his statement shortly. As of 24 October, 10 people have been arrested in connection with the case. The three alleged shooters — Phool Singh (18), Rehan Rahimuddin Ansari (18), and Hrithik Mahato (22) — remain in police custody until 31 October. The probe continues.