Saif Ali Khan Attacker Confesses, Arrest Raises Immigration Concerns

India-West News Desk

MUMBAI – Shariful Islam Shehzad, a Bangladeshi national who illegally entered India as Bijoy Das, has confessed to attacking Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan during a burglary at his Bandra residence on January 16. The case has drawn attention to issues of illegal immigration and urban security.

The Incident

Police reported that Shehzad, 30, entered Khan’s residence at around 2 a.m. by scaling the building and accessing a bathroom window. He confronted the nanny and later attacked Khan with a wooden stick and blade when the actor intervened. Khan sustained multiple stab wounds, underwent surgery, and remains hospitalized.

Investigation and Arrest

Mumbai Police launched an extensive operation involving 30 teams and detailed CCTV analysis to track Shehzad. A breakthrough came when investigators traced a UPI payment he made at a Worli food stall. Further leads from a labor contractor, who recognized him from CCTV footage, led police to a labor camp in Thane, where Shehzad was apprehended after a seven-hour search.

Shehzad, who worked at a Thane hotel, had no prior criminal record. He admitted to the attack but claimed he was unaware of Khan’s identity and denied any intent to kill.

Immigration and Security Challenges

Authorities revealed that Shehzad entered India via porous borders in areas like Malda and Murshidabad, using fake Aadhaar cards purchased for ₹2,000 to ₹10,000. The case highlights difficulties in tracking illegal immigrants, many of whom work informally in urban centers. Mumbai Police have previously arrested numerous Bangladeshi nationals for illegal residency, but deportation efforts are hindered by procedural challenges.

Legal and Police Action

Shehzad has been remanded to five days of police custody. His defense lawyer has raised questions about the investigation, but police assert that their case is supported by strong evidence.

Joint Commissioner of Police Satyanarayan Chaudhary commended the swift efforts of 75 officers involved in the case, awarding them certificates of appreciation.

Khan’s Health Update

Doctors report that Saif Ali Khan is stable but will remain under observation in the hospital. His family is expected to provide a formal health update soon.