New revelations in the Saif Ali Khan attack case have shed light on the movements of the accused, Shariful Islam Shehzad Mohammad Rohilla Amin Fakir, a Bangladeshi national. The 30-year-old, arrested in Thane on Sunday, was responsible for breaking into Khan’s Bandra residence, attempting a robbery, and stabbing the actor six times during a scuffle. According to the Mumbai Police’s investigation, Fakir entered India illegally about seven months ago, crossing the Dawki river in Meghalaya and using fraudulent means to integrate into the country’s systems.
Fakir’s Illegal Entry and Use of Fake Identity
Fakir, who had initially adopted the fake name Bijoy Das, used Aadhaar card details from a West Bengal resident, Khukumoni Jahangir Sekh, to register a SIM card. Investigations revealed that Fakir moved through West Bengal, attempting to create his own Aadhaar card but failing to do so. After spending a few weeks in Bengal, he moved to Mumbai in search of employment.
The Attack on Saif Ali Khan
On the night of the attack, Fakir attempted to rob Khan’s residence at the Satguru Sharan building. He was reportedly unsuccessful in breaking into another nearby Bollywood celebrity’s bungalow, where he was deterred by barking dogs. After the attack on Khan, Fakir allegedly hid in the building’s garden for two hours before being apprehended. Police were able to trace him down after connecting with a labour contractor and tracking a UPI transaction that Fakir made for food.
The Police Investigation and Fakir’s Backstory
Fakir’s calls to Bangladesh were discovered during the police investigation, leading to further evidence about his origins. He eventually called his brother to send his school leaving certificate, which confirmed his Bangladeshi nationality.
In his statement, Fakir claimed to have studied till Class 12 in Bangladesh and came to India seeking work. Police believe he intentionally sought jobs that didn’t require official documentation. A labour contractor, Amit Pandey, helped Fakir secure housekeeping work in Thane and Worli pubs and hotels.
Saif Ali Khan’s Recovery
The actor sustained six stab wounds, including deep cuts to his left hand and neck. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, where doctors declared him out of danger after undergoing multiple surgeries. He is currently recovering in a special room at the hospital.
Political Reactions
The attack has sparked political debate, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi questioning the Centre’s security measures. She raised concerns over the failure to secure India’s borders, especially after it was revealed that Fakir had entered through the Meghalaya border. Chaturvedi criticized the Home Ministry for not having adequate mechanisms in place to prevent such illegal entries.
“The illegal Bangladeshi immigrant who attacked actor Saif Ali Khan entered India via Meghalaya. Yet again raises questions on the failure of Home Minister of India for not having adequate measures in place to safeguard our borders. Shame,” she posted on X.
Conclusion
As the investigation into the Saif Ali Khan attack continues, the circumstances surrounding Fakir’s illegal entry into India have raised critical questions about border security and the misuse of personal identification data. The case continues to develop, with authorities working to piece together the full extent of the attacker’s actions and his time spent within India.
