Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, who recently survived a violent attack at his Bandra residence, was discharged from Lilavati Hospital on Tuesday after receiving five days of treatment.
Saif was seen leaving the hospital with a smile, waving to fans and paparazzi who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor. Upon his arrival home, he greeted well-wishers and the media stationed outside his residence, which was surrounded by heavy police security.
On Wednesday, Mumbai Police visited Saif’s residence to record his statement regarding the incident.
Actor Ronit Roy, widely recognised for his roles in television and film, was spotted accompanying Saif as he returned home. His presence sparked curiosity, with many questioning his involvement. It has since been confirmed that Saif has hired Roy’s security firm, Ace Security and Protection, to bolster his safety following the attack.
The assault occurred last week when an intruder, identified as Mohd Shariful Islam Shehzad, broke into Saif’s home with the intent of theft. Saif confronted the trespasser, which escalated into a violent altercation, leaving the actor with stab wounds to his thoracic spine. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital for emergency treatment.
The auto-rickshaw driver who transported Saif to the hospital recounted the harrowing night in an interview with ANI.
“It was around 2-3 a.m. when I noticed a woman attempting to hire an auto, but no one stopped. I also heard calls for a rickshaw from inside the gate. I turned my vehicle around and stopped near the gate. A man, bleeding heavily, emerged with a group of 2-4 others. They quickly got into the auto and asked me to take them to Lilavati Hospital. It was only later that I realised the man was Saif Ali Khan,” said the driver, Rana. He described Saif as bleeding profusely from his neck and back during the ride.
Following the incident, Mumbai Police launched an investigation and registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). The accused, Shehzad, was apprehended in Thane’s Hiranandani Estate while attempting to flee to his native village in Bangladesh. Shehzad is a resident of the Jhalokati district in Bangladesh.
In the aftermath of the attack, Saif’s wife, actress Kareena Kapoor, issued a heartfelt statement on Instagram, addressing the emotional toll on their family.
“It has been an incredibly challenging day for our family, and we are still trying to process the events that have unfolded. As we navigate this difficult time, I respectfully and humbly request that the media and paparazzi refrain from relentless speculation and coverage,” Kareena wrote.
She continued, “While we appreciate the concern and support, the constant scrutiny and attention are not only overwhelming but also pose a significant risk to our safety. I kindly request that you respect our boundaries and give us the space we need to heal and cope as a family. I would like to thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation during this sensitive time.”
As Saif begins his recovery, the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of high-profile individuals in the city.