Mumbai hostage scare ends as police shoot suspect; 20 kids rescued
Mumbai hostage scare ends as police shoot suspect; 20 kids rescued
A tense Powai hostage crisis ends with police shooting the suspect after he held more than 20 people, including around 20 children. All hostages were rescued.
A hostage crisis unfolded in Mumbai's Powai neighborhood when a man took more than 20 people, including about 20 children, hostage at a studio where auditions were taking place. In a video released during the standoff, he demanded to speak with certain individuals and threatened arson and self-harm.
Negotiators worked through the afternoon, coordinating with emergency services as police surrounded the building. The tense stand-off intensified when Arya allegedly aimed an air gun at the hostages.
After hours, security forces moved in and opened fire on Arya. He was critically wounded and later died in hospital. All hostages were rescued unharmed, with no reports of injuries among the children or adults.
Authorities described Arya as mentally unstable based on preliminary assessments, and investigations are ongoing into the motive and any possible connections. The rescue operation involved the police and Mumbai Fire Brigade, and authorities urged calm as families waited outside the studio.
Residents say the community remains shaken, but grateful for the swift response that prevented casualties. Officials said counseling services would be made available to witnesses and families as the city returns to normal.
Cover image source: Over 20 children ‘held hostage’ in Mumbai’s Powai rescued, man arrested 🔗
