Email traced to Sweden; similar message sent to Ranveer Singh as Crime Branch probes gang links
February 20, 2026: Bollywood actor Aayush Sharma allegedly received a threatening email on February 12 demanding several crores of rupees. Sources said the message, sent via encrypted platform Proton Mail, claimed links to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Digital forensics reportedly traced the email’s origin to Sweden, prompting Indian authorities to contact Swedish agencies for further verification. The Crime Branch has recorded the statement of Sharma’s manager, though no FIR has been registered so far.
In a similar incident, actor Ranveer Singh was also targeted by a sender claiming affiliation with the same gang. His manager reportedly received a threatening voice note on WhatsApp. Investigators traced the digital trail to the United States despite attempts to mask the location using a VPN. The Mumbai Police is coordinating with US authorities under international protocols, and Singh has recorded his statement as part of the probe.
The threats surfaced days after shots were fired outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence in Juhu. In a multi-state operation involving teams from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, the Mumbai Crime Branch has arrested 12 suspects. Police said a group calling itself “Hindu Sainiks” allegedly recruited shooters through social media, luring them with promises of money. The firearm used in the shooting has been recovered and sent for forensic analysis as investigations continue.