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Attempt to replicate Pahalgam-like incident in Mumbai
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Accused Zubair Ansari a US-returned science graduate
Mira Road, Mumbai – The investigation into the knife attack on two security guards in the Naya Nagar area of Mira Road is intensifying. According to sources within investigating agencies, there may be a terror link to the incident, with suspicion pointing towards a possible lone wolf attack.
The accused reportedly asked the guards about their religion and whether they could recite the kalma. When they failed to do so he attacked them with a knife. During the investigation, a note was recovered from the accused containing references to ISIS, jihad, and Gaza.
#BreakingNews | Zaib Zubair Ansari, 31, was arrested after he allegedly stabbed the guards at an under-construction building site in the Mira Road area after they failed to recite ‘Kalma’ or ‘Kalima’
He told me to say ‘Allah’: Hari Singh, Eyewitness of Mumbai attack speaks with… pic.twitter.com/Ej76kRooTH
— News18 (@CNNnews18) April 30, 2026
Recovered note indicates radicalisation
Sources said the note contained threatening language and clear signs of radical ideology, including statements such as: “Lone wolves will pounce on you… You mushrikeen will see real jihad in Bilad Hind from now!”
Other disjointed references mentioned family, religion, and Gaza, with lines like: “People, family, wives, parents… will leave you. May Allah guide them. Gaza will only be free by…”
Following these findings, the case has been transferred to the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The accused’s digital footprint, including mobile data, browsing history, and communication records is being thoroughly examined.
Asked about religion, demanded recitation of kalma
According to the police, Ansari first visited the site asking for directions to a mosque and then left. He returned shortly afterward, questioned one guard about his religion, and asked him to recite the kalma. When the guard was unable to do so, Ansari stabbed him. He then entered the security cabin and attacked the second guard in a similar manner.
Accused’s background
Zubair Ansari is a science graduate who lived in the United States for several years. After returning to India, he resided alone in Mira Road and taught Chemistry online. Investigating agencies suspect he was radicalised through social media, video platforms, and messaging applications.
Editorial Perspective
- This case has once again shattered the myth that jihadi radicalisation stems primarily from poverty or illiteracy.
- The accused, a science graduate who lived in the United States for several years, harboured deep-seated hatred towards people of other religions, driven purely by jihadi ideology. His education and prosperity proved no barrier to radicalisation.
— Editor, HJS
Possibility of a larger network under probe – CM Devendra Fadnavis
Reacting to the incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that while the investigation is currently focusing on the lone wolf angle, it will not be limited to the arrested accused. Authorities will also examine whether any larger network or support system is involved.