Daya Nayak: The Encounter Specialist at the Heart of Saif Ali Khan’s Attack Investigation
Mumbai was shaken early Thursday when Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan was stabbed at his Bandra home in a shocking attack that raised serious security concerns. Following the incident, Mumbai Police sprang into action, and one of the key officers involved in the investigation was none other than Daya Nayak, the city’s most famous encounter specialist.
The Attack on Saif Ali Khan
Saif Ali Khan, the 54-year-old Bollywood star, was attacked by an intruder at his Bandra residence in the early hours of Thursday. Despite suffering multiple stab wounds, the actor is now reported to be out of danger after undergoing surgery at Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital. His wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and their two children, Taimur and Jeh, were fortunately unharmed during the ordeal.
The police quickly responded to the incident, and a detailed investigation was launched. Among the officers seen at the scene of the crime was Daya Nayak, known for his formidable role in Mumbai’s fight against the underworld.
Who Is Daya Nayak?
Daya Nayak, a prominent figure in Mumbai’s police force, is widely recognized for his role as an encounter specialist. His career in law enforcement has been both praised and controversial. But his work in neutralizing Mumbai’s underworld gangsters in the 1990s has cemented his place as one of the most respected figures in Indian policing.
Early Life and Journey to Mumbai
Born in a Konkani-speaking family in Udupi, Karnataka, Daya Nayak was the youngest son of Badda and Radha Nayak. His journey to Mumbai began in 1979 when, at just 15 years old, he left his village in search of a better future. Initially working at a hotel in Mumbai, Nayak completed his schooling by studying in the portico of the hotel where he worked.
With a passion for serving the public, Nayak went on to graduate from CES College in Andheri. He then pursued his dream of becoming a police officer, joining the police academy after meeting narcotics officers during his time as a plumber’s apprentice.
Rise to Prominence
Nayak’s career took off in 1995 when he was appointed as a police sub-inspector at the Juhu police station. This was a turbulent period for Mumbai, as the city’s underworld was thriving. His rise to prominence came in December 1996, when he killed two gangsters from the Chhota Rajan gang during a shootout in Juhu. The incident marked the beginning of his reputation as an effective encounter specialist, tasked with neutralizing criminals through direct confrontation.
Over the years, Nayak became known for eliminating over 80 underworld criminals, earning him both admiration and criticism. His involvement in high-profile cases and his willingness to use deadly force to protect the city’s safety made him a key figure in Mumbai’s law enforcement.
Controversies and Allegations
Despite his success, Nayak has not been without controversy. In 2004, he was investigated by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for amassing wealth that was disproportionate to his official income. Allegations surfaced that he owned luxury assets, including two fleets of luxury buses under a travel agency. The ACB raided multiple properties, including locations in Mumbai and Karnataka, and arrested Nayak.
However, Nayak was reinstated in 2012, resuming his role as an additional commissioner of police. Though his career has been marred by these controversies, his influence in Mumbai’s policing system remains unshaken.
Nayak’s Role in Saif Ali Khan’s Attack Investigation
Following the attack on Saif Ali Khan, Nayak, along with other top Mumbai Police officers, visited the scene at the Satguru Sharan apartments in Bandra. Police suspect that the intruder may have been familiar with the household and possibly gained entry through Saif’s domestic help. Investigations are underway, and Nayak’s experience in dealing with such high-stakes cases is crucial in determining the motives and apprehending the assailant.
With his expertise in dealing with complex criminal cases, Daya Nayak’s involvement in the Saif Ali Khan attack investigation is seen as a significant move toward solving the crime and ensuring the safety of Bollywood figures.
Conclusion
Daya Nayak’s journey from a young boy in Udupi to a celebrated police officer in Mumbai is a testament to his resilience and dedication to law enforcement. While his career has faced scrutiny, there is no denying his impact on the city’s safety and his crucial role in investigations like the one following the attack on Saif Ali Khan. As Mumbai continues to grapple with security challenges, Nayak’s presence remains an essential part of the city’s police force.
