In April 2024, news of a brazen drive-by shooting at Salman Khan’s Bandra residence sent shivers down the spine of Bollywood. Thankfully, there were no injuries, but the incident exposed a sinister underbelly. Anuj Thapan, a name relatively unknown at the time, became a central figure in the investigation, raising a cloud of mystery.
While the spotlight focused on the gunmen, Anuj Thapan was arrested for allegedly playing a crucial role – supplying the very firearms used in the attack. Reports suggested he wasn’t the triggerman, but rather the facilitator who obtained the weapon. Another man, Sonu Subhash Chander, was apprehended alongside Thapan, both accused of being part of the arms supply chain.
A Web of Gangs and Rivalry
The investigation revealed a possible link to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, a name synonymous with organized crime in India. Bishnoi reportedly had a simmering rivalry with Salman Khan, fueling speculation that the shooting was a targeted attempt at intimidation. With Bishnoi still absconding, Thapan’s role became even more critical in understanding the motive and the network behind the attack.
Just as the investigation began to unravel the connections, tragedy struck. Thapan died by suicide while in police custody. News reports indicated he hanged himself in a lock-up bathroom. This unexpected development cast a shadow over the case. Questions arose regarding the circumstances surrounding his detainment and the alleged suicide. Did Thapan leave a suicide note offering any explanation for his actions or the shooting? Were proper protocols followed during his custody? The unanswered questions added another layer of complexity to the already murky situation.
A Case with Lingering Doubts
Thapan’s death effectively closed his chapter in the investigation. However, it left a gaping hole in understanding the bigger picture. What motivated him to allegedly supply the weapon? Was he a mere pawn in a larger game orchestrated by Bishnoi, or was there a deeper personal connection? The lack of answers fueled speculation and conspiracy theories.
The investigation continued, focusing on apprehending Bishnoi and the alleged shooters. While some arrests were made, the full picture of the conspiracy remained elusive. The Salman Khan case became a stark reminder of the vulnerability of celebrities and the potential reach of criminal elements within the entertainment industry.
