Police in Mumbai have safely rescued 17 children and two adults who were held hostage by a man inside a building in the city’s Powai area. The dramatic rescue unfolded after authorities received a distress call around 1:45 p.m. local time, alerting them that a group of people had been detained against their will in a local acting school.
According to officials, the hostage-taker, identified as Rohit Arya, had locked the victims inside a classroom at the Mahavir Classic building, where children had gathered for an audition. Initial attempts by police to negotiate with Arya proved unsuccessful, as he reportedly refused to cooperate. Officers were then forced to use tactical measures to enter the premises and free the captives.
All 19 hostages — 17 children and two adults — were rescued unharmed. The suspect was subdued and taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Authorities confirmed that he sustained injuries during the intervention, though the extent of his condition remains unclear.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Arya had taken the hostages to draw attention to what he described as “moral and ethical demands.” In a video circulating online, the man claimed he wanted to question certain individuals but insisted that he was neither a terrorist nor motivated by financial gain. He warned that “any wrong move” could provoke him and threatened to ignite the building.
During a search of the premises, officers recovered an air gun and a chemical substance believed to have been in Arya’s possession. Forensic experts have since been called in to analyze the materials. Police have sealed off the area as investigations continue into the suspect’s motives and background.
The incident has sparked widespread concern across Mumbai, especially among parents and school authorities, who are urging tighter security at children’s learning and recreational centers. Law enforcement officials have reassured the public that the situation is under control and that all rescued individuals are safe.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine whether the suspect acted alone or had assistance in orchestrating the hostage situation.
