A tense situation unfolded in Mumbai’s Powai area when a man (kidnapper), identified as Rohit Arya, allegedly held 17 children hostage inside RA Studio on Thursday. The incident sparked panic before the Mumbai Police safely rescued all the children and detained the suspect.
According to police officials, Rohit Arya locked several children inside RA Studio and later posted a video message on social media claiming he wanted to speak to certain people. He threatened to set the studio on fire and harm himself and the children if his demands were not met.
Police acted swiftly, surrounding the premises and initiating rescue operations. The Mumbai Police confirmed that they safely rescued all the children and handed them over to their guardians. Police added that the kidnapper, Arya, appears mentally unstable. They are now trying to uncover the motive behind the hostage situation.
Who is Rohit Arya and what were his demands?
In his now-viral video, Rohit Arya introduced himself and claimed he did not want money or publicity. Instead, he said he had ‘moral and ethical questions’ that needed to be addressed by certain people.
“I don’t have financial demands and want answers to my questions. I am neither a terrorist nor do I seek money,” Arya said in the clip.
Authorities report that the suspect lured boys and girls, all around 15 years old, into the studio by pretending to hold an audition at the time of the incident.
Film-like parallels and ongoing investigation
The episode drew comparisons to the 2022 Bollywood film A Thursday, in which the protagonist holds children hostage to make demands of the authorities. Arya’s actions took place on a Thursday as well, leading police to probe whether the film influenced his plan.
Officials have since secured the area and launched a detailed investigation into Arya’s background and mental health.
“All children are safe. Further information will be shared after verification,” the police added.
