The security of Aftab Poonawala, accused in the 2022 Shraddha Walkar murder case, has been heightened in Tihar Jail following reports of death threats from associates of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, officials disclosed on Friday.
Details of the Threat
- Source of Threat:
The threat reportedly originates from individuals linked to Bishnoi, including those allegedly involved in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddiqui in October. - Conspiracy:
Intelligence suggests these individuals were planning an attack on Poonawala with the cooperation of jailed gangsters.
Enhanced Security Measures
- Preventive Actions:
- Increased Monitoring: Two night guards have been deployed to ensure Poonawala’s safety in jail number four.
- Conflict Prevention: Extra precautions are being taken to avoid any potential gang violence within the prison.
- No additional formal measures have been announced, but officials stress that security protocols have been intensified.
- Tihar Jail Statement:
While the Delhi Prisons Public Relations Office refrained from making an official statement, jail authorities confirmed they are acting on the intelligence inputs to maintain order and safety.
Context of the Case
- The Accused:
Aftab Poonawala is accused of murdering his live-in partner Shraddha Walkar in 2022, allegedly dismembering her body into over 30 pieces. He has been in custody since his arrest in November 2022. - The Bishnoi Connection:
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been implicated in high-profile threats and crimes, including:- Threatening Bollywood actors Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Mithun Chakraborty.
- Orchestrating the murder of Baba Siddiqui from within Sabarmati Jail.
Implications and Precautions
The heightened security underscores the rising influence of gang networks operating even from within prison systems. Authorities are treating the threat seriously, given the Bishnoi gang’s history of carrying out targeted attacks. Poonawala’s case remains in public focus, intensifying the need for preventive action to avoid further escalation or violence.
