Bareilly, UP — Uttar Pradesh Police say they have identified a social media account, reportedly operating from Portugal, that claimed responsibility for firing outside actor Disha Patani’s ancestral home. The post, which spread widely, was deactivated shortly after going viral. Authorities believe the person behind it is part of a criminal gang involved in extortion, murder, and drug trafficking.
The incident occurred in the early hours of a recent Friday morning when two men on a motorcycle opened fire around 3:46 a.m. at the house of retired police officer Jagdish Singh Patani. Disha Patani, Bollywood actor, and her younger sister Khushboo were inside at the time. The assailants fled the scene after discharging several shots at the residence.
The social media post in question, written in Hindi and addressed to “brothers,” stated that the firing was in protest against comments allegedly made by Disha Patani and her sister about two religious figures — Sant Premanand Maharaj and Aniruddhacharya. The post accused them of insulting the saints and warning against repeating such acts, urging respect for “Sanatan Dharma.”
According to Bareilly Senior Superintendent of Police, Anurag Arya, the traced account is managed from Portugal. The person identified in the post, named Virendra Chaaran, is allegedly associated with organized crime and has an outstanding red-corner notice issued earlier. Law enforcement agencies say he is involved in multiple illegal activities including drug trafficking and extortion across various states.
Following the claim, police forces in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan have begun coordinating investigations. Multiple teams have been dispatched to track down the assailants. An FIR has been registered at Kotwali police station, naming unidentified attackers, and stating that two men arrived on a bike, fired multiple rounds, and escaped.
The Patani family has been offered enhanced security. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath contacted Jagdish Singh Patani to assure him of full protection and swift legal action. Neighbours reported hearing noises consistent with gunfire, and law enforcement has collected bullet casings and reviewed CCTV footage which shows possible suspects fleeing toward Nainital Road.
No arrests have been confirmed yet. Police say investigations are ongoing, with leads being pursued both domestically and internationally. The case raises questions about the use of overseas social media accounts in instigating threats, and how digital traces are used in tracking criminals involved in such offences.