Mumbai Police successfully rescued 17 children and two adults held hostage at an acting school in Powai. The suspect, Rohit Arya, was shot during the operation and later died. Officers recovered an airgun and chemicals from the scene.
In a tense rescue operation, Mumbai Police freed 17 children and two adults who had been held hostage inside an acting school in Powai. The incident created chaos in the area, as panicked parents and residents gathered outside the building while police teams negotiated with the suspect.
Officials later identified the man behind the attack as Rohit Arya, who was shot during the rescue mission and later declared dead at a nearby hospital.
How the Incident Unfolded
The drama began when children gathered at the acting school for what they believed to be a regular audition. Shortly after the session began, Rohit Arya allegedly locked the doors and claimed to have taken everyone inside hostage.
According to police reports, Arya released a video during the standoff in which he declared that he had taken the children to “ask some questions” of certain unnamed individuals. He threatened to set the studio on fire if anyone made a wrong move.
Police were quickly alerted, and senior officers, along with a special team, rushed to the site.
Police Negotiation and Tactical Operations
Authorities first attempted to negotiate with Arya, urging him to release the children safely. However, when he refused to cooperate and continued making threats, officers decided to act.
A tactical team entered the building through a bathroom window to surprise the suspect and secure the hostages. During the confrontation, Arya was shot by police and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.
Items Recovered and Safety Measures
Police recovered an airgun and an unspecified chemical substance from the studio, which are being analyzed by forensic experts. Thankfully, none of the children were harmed, and they were quickly reunited with their families after medical evaluations.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Datta Nalawade stated that officers are continuing to search the premises for any additional evidence or materials related to the suspect’s actions.
Reactions from Parents and Residents
The Powai neighbourhood witnessed intense scenes of panic and relief as news spread of the hostage situation. Dozens of parents crowded the streets near the studio, anxiously waiting for updates.
After the children were rescued, many parents thanked the Mumbai Police for their swift and decisive action, calling the rescue “heroic and timely.”
What We Know About Rohit Arya
Early investigations suggest that Rohit Arya may have had connections with the local acting and media circuit. His motive remains unclear, but his video messages indicated a state of distress and a desire to confront unspecified individuals.
Authorities are now reviewing his background, mental health status, and any previous criminal or professional disputes to understand what led him to commit such a desperate act.
Investigation Continues
Mumbai Police have launched a full investigation into the case, including analysis of the chemicals found and any digital evidence recovered from the suspect’s devices. The incident has also sparked discussions on security at acting and talent schools, where young participants often gather without strong safety oversight.
