Just days before the shocking murder of senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique, his son, Maharashtra MLA Zeeshan Siddique, had written to state intelligence officials requesting enhanced security due to threats to his life, sources revealed. Baba Siddique was shot dead on Saturday night in Bandra, Mumbai, near his son’s office, after being ambushed by three men.

Zeeshan Siddique had reportedly raised concerns about threats linked to his opposition to a Slum Rehabilitation Project (SRA) in Bandra’s Bharat Nagar. His security was subsequently increased, but despite this, the tragic attack took place. Police are now investigating whether these threats are connected to the assassination.

The attackers struck amid the noise of Dussehra celebrations, using the cover of fireworks to open fire on Baba Siddique. The shooting initially went unnoticed by many in the crowded Kher Nagar area, who mistook the gunfire for festival sounds. However, police responded swiftly, apprehending two of the assailants on the spot and recovering two pistols and 29 live rounds. The suspects allegedly claimed links to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, but authorities are also investigating other potential motives, including a contract killing or business rivalry tied to the slum redevelopment project.

At the time of the attack, only one police constable was present with Baba Siddique, despite the NCP leader being assigned three officers for his protection. Two of the constables had been relieved earlier in the evening, raising questions about the adequacy of his security detail.

The police investigation is ongoing, with multiple angles under scrutiny as authorities work to uncover the motive behind the killing. Meanwhile, Zeeshan Siddique continues to be under heightened security following his earlier request for protection.