Mumbai: A dramatic three-hour hostage situation in Mumbai’s Powai ended on Thursday after a police officer shot dead a man who had held 19 people, including 17 children, inside a film studio. The accused, identified as Rohit Arya, was killed moments before he could allegedly fire his airgun at one of the hostages.
According to police sources, Arya had lured the victims — mostly children aged between 10 and 12 — to the studio on the pretext of auditioning for a web series. Once everyone arrived, he locked the doors and announced that they were his hostages.
Officer’s quick action saves lives
Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Amol Waghmare, part of the Powai police team, acted swiftly when the accused appeared to aim at one of the children. “The officer fired a single round from his service weapon, hitting Arya in the chest,” a police official said. Arya later succumbed to his injuries.
Waghmare’s courage and precision have drawn wide praise from citizens and senior police officials alike. Many on social media have hailed him as the “Hero of Powai” for his role in saving the children.
Hostage drama inside Powai studio
Police said they were alerted around 1.45 pm about the incident. Upon reaching the spot, they discovered that Arya had armed himself with an airgun — potentially lethal at close range — and had placed motion sensors on the studio windows to prevent any rescue attempts.
The police entered the premises through the backdoor and carefully assessed the situation from a washroom adjoining the main studio. As negotiations with Arya failed, the team decided to intervene when he attempted to attack one of the children.
Gunman’s motive
Before the final standoff, Arya released a video message in which he claimed he had planned to take hostages instead of dying by suicide. His statements hinted at emotional distress and personal grievances, but officials have yet to confirm the motive.
Investigators also found certain chemicals at the scene, though police have not disclosed their composition or possible use.
All hostages rescued safely
Following the gunman’s death, all 19 hostages, including two adults, were safely evacuated from the studio. None sustained injuries, though several were visibly shaken by the ordeal.
Senior Mumbai Police officials have ordered a detailed investigation into how Arya managed to organise the so-called “audition” and acquire the airgun.
Commendation for bravery
Commissioner of Police Viren Singh commended the Powai police team for their “swift, brave, and calculated” response that prevented a potential tragedy. He confirmed that ASI Waghmare’s name has been recommended for a Gallantry Award.
Authorities have also appealed to citizens to remain cautious about online audition calls and report any suspicious activities immediately.