Aamir Khan was first target of Bishnoi gang shooters before Tiger Shroff, say police sources

Shooters linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang had actor Aamir Khan as their real target before they shifted their attention to actor Tiger Shroff, police sources probing the October 18 firing in Mumbai said.

Investigators have reportedly learnt that the accused carried out reconnaissance around Khan's home three times. However, they allegedly did not get a proper opportunity to reach the actor, as Khan often went out for film shoots or stayed at home for long stretches.

Police sources said the shooters then fixed their gaze on Shroff. He allegedly visited Pushpa Narsi Ground in Juhu regularly to play football, which made it easy to track his movements. According to the sources, the accused learnt of Shroff's Sunday visits from social media. They also allegedly watched his routine before the attack.

Police sources have linked the alleged plan involving Khan to threats received earlier this year from people associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Investigators are now examining whether those threats were connected to the later firing.

On October 18, two men allegedly fired shots near Shroff's vehicle in Juhu and fled on a motorcycle. The actor was unharmed. His driver and a passerby were allegedly injured.

After the incident, the Mumbai Police Crime Branch began a wider probe into the alleged conspiracy and the suspects' associates. Other Bollywood personalities have also come into focus in the investigation. Earlier reports had indicated that the accused visited places linked to Salman Khan and Ranveer Singh. Investigators are examining whether those visits were part of any specific targeting plan.

The investigation is continuing. Nothing about the alleged motive and targets has so far emerged in court.