New Delhi, AYT News | Bollywood powerhouse Salman Khan has been thrust into the spotlight for reasons beyond his cinematic achievements, as he now contends with a dire threat from the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The Mumbai Traffic Police received a chilling message via WhatsApp demanding Rs 5 crore from the actor to end a long-standing feud tied to the gang's leader, Lawrence Bishnoi. The message, stark in its intent, warned, "Don't take it lightly, if Salman Khan wants to stay alive and wants to end the enmity with Lawrence Bishnoi, then he will have to pay Rs 5 crore." This threat does not stand alone; it's the latest in a series of confrontations. Previously, the actor received an email threat in March 2023, and before that, a threat letter was discovered opposite his residence in 2022, painting a disturbing pattern of targeted harassment.
The Mumbai Police, taking no chances, have heightened security measures around Salman Khan's Bandra residence and other frequent locations. The investigation into the threat's origin is underway, with the police actively tracing the WhatsApp message to uncover the sender's identity and the potential involvement of the Bishnoi gang. Lawrence Bishnoi, currently incarcerated, has been identified as a central figure in these threats. Known for his criminal activities ranging from extortion to murder, Bishnoi's links with various underworld figures have made him a formidable adversary. His past connections to incidents like the firing outside Khan's residence as a "final warning" underline the gravity of the situation. The demand for Rs 5 crore not only signifies an attempt at extortion but also highlights the ongoing rivalry, possibly rooted in Salman Khan's involvement in the 1998 Blackbuck poaching case, for which Bishnoi has expressed public resentment.
This case has been a point of contention and a catalyst for threats against Khan. Public reactions have been mixed, with many expressing concern for Khan's safety while others speculate on the broader implications of such threats within the film industry. Security experts suggest that this incident could lead to a reevaluation of how high-profile individuals manage their security, especially when dealing with organized crime threats. As the investigation progresses, the city's law enforcement agencies are under scrutiny to ensure the safety of one of Bollywood's most recognized figures.
The case also brings to light the intersection of celebrity life with the darker elements of organized crime, posing questions about security, law enforcement's capabilities, and the psychological impact on individuals living under such threats.